7 Packing Tips for a Purposeful Safari Adventure
If you're planning a Purposeful Safari Adventure with Wilderness Safaris, here are 7 tips to help you pack for your trip. I also share a handy dandy packing list.
1. Pack a Squishy Bag
Airplanes transferring you to camps are small so won’t fit rigid suitcases with wheels.
2. Pack Light
Weight limit will also be low. Do not exceed the plane’s total weight allowance.
3. Clothes for 3-4 days
The safari camps will have laundry facilities for you to get your clothes washed.
4. Wear muted colours
You’ll probably want to blend in with the savannah so leave the bright whites and vibrant colours at home.
5. Roll your clothes
Clothes that are rolled take up less room and will look better once unpacked.
6. Use small zip bags
Pack smaller items in a small zip bag to keep things compact and together.
7. Pack for a purpose
Leave space for items needed for community projects, such as pencils for local schools.
Safari Packing List
- Soft broad-brimmed hat
- A lightweight, windproof top – early mornings on open vehicles can be chilly, even in the heat of summer; winter nights can be cold
- A warm jacket (if you’re travelling in winter)
- 2 warm tops (fleece/hoodie type)
- 3 lightweight fast-dry/wicking//technical (e.g. fishing/hiking) tops – long sleeves are great for keeping the sun off your arms, even in the heat
- 2 pairs trousers (winter) or shorts (zip-off longs are best for summer as you need both)
- One or two buffs (multi-functional tubular bandanna) – a must for keeping your hair off your face or protected from the elements on the open vehicle, the sun or cold wind off your neck, the dust off your camera or folded double as a beanie
- Scarf, gloves and beanies/woollen hats for the cold winter months
- PJs, Underwear, 3 pairs of socks
- Bathing suit (if your camp(s) have a pool, or if your trip includes beach time)
- 1 pair lightweight but sturdy closed shoes
- 1 pair sandals or flip-flops
- Optional: a kikoi/sarong/shawl – useful for extra protection against the sun/heat/cold/wind
- Travel-size toiletries (eco-friendly amenities such as soap, shampoo, conditioner and body lotion are provided in all our guest accommodation); sunblock (wipes are great) and sun-protective lip-balm (mosquito repellent is provided)
- Wildlife and birds e-guides on your device (the Sasol eBirds of Southern Africa and Wildlife of Southern Africa apps are excellent)
- Binoculars – bring a fairly compact set, e.g. 7×40; any bigger and they start getting too bulky. Unless you’re a birder of course.
- A powerful bridge camera (unless you are a serious photographer and then you’ll already have your pelican case waiting at the door).
- Items needed by the camp’s local community (check with your agent to learn which items are needed)
Source: Wilderness Safaris
