Adventure Africa Safari Holiday – 9 Tips on What to Pack

So you’re super excited about your next adventure vacation in Africa, but since an African safari isn’t something you do every day, you’re wondering what the heck you should pack! Here are 9 essential top-to-bottom tips on what to pack for your African safari.

1. Don’t forget your hat! She chooses wisely, one that shades her eyes and covers the back of her neck. Heatstroke would definitely spoil her adventure vacation in Africa, so don’t forget that.
2. Sunglasses: Absolutely essential to protect your eyes from the bright African sun that will reflect off the Savannah plains.
3. An African safari requires neutral colored clothing. Avoid bright colors, as you don’t want to draw attention and scare away wild animals you want to see. White is neutral but shows every mark! Khaki, brown, beige and olive colors are perfect. Another advantage of light neutral clothing is that it will repel heat. Dark clothing will make you feel hotter.
4. Wear light, non-synthetic clothing (cotton and linen) on your African safari. Remember the African sun and how hot it can get (depending, of course, on the time of year you visit). You’ll need to let your skin breathe, so choose the right fabric to allow it. Light clothing also allows you to layer comfortably, a big plus because it can be hot in the day, but cold at night.
5. Wear long sleeves! Yes, it’s hot, but if you pack light long sleeves, you can protect yourself from sunburn as you can keep yourself covered without feeling too hot. Long sleeves are also a must at night to avoid mosquito bites.
6. Warm clothing is also essential! The day can be very hot in Africa, but the temperature can sometimes drop at night. Hoodies and socks will be lost if you don’t pack them.
7. Wear big pockets or pants with big pockets! You’ll find you’ll have a lot to bring: bug spray, water, camera, sunscreen, sunglasses, binoculars, bird books…
8. Comfortable walking shoes are essential, especially if you are doing a walking safari. Proper footwear remains important for outdoor activities in and around the hostel’s natural environment. Open shoes like sandals will suffice if you won’t be walking anywhere with thick brush that can scratch your skin. However, sandals are much more comfortable for evening entertainment with music and food around outdoor fire pits.
9. No need to pack the kitchen sink! Don’t pack too much. Most hotels, lodges and campgrounds will provide laundry facilities and nothing makes traveling long distances simpler than light luggage that you don’t have to lug around.