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Ultimate Safari Packing List: From Binoculars to Breathable Layers

  • Writer: David Loyless
    David Loyless
  • Sep 1, 2025
  • 3 min read

Updated: Sep 12, 2025

Giraffes and zebras on safari
Pack smart for your next safari, so you can spend time focusing on what really matters.

Pack Smart, Travel Light


An African safari is the trip of a lifetime — but it’s also a packing challenge. Bush planes limit luggage weight, dusty roads demand durable gear, and climate swings mean layering is essential.


Your Safari Essentials


Packing for a safari isn't about filling your suitcase -- it's about choosing items that make your experience seamless and comfortable.


Clothing


  • Neutral tones: Khaki, olive, and beige will help you blend in. Avoid bright whites and blues, which can attract tsetse flies.

  • Lightweight, long-sleeve shirts: For sun and insect protection. We love the Sahara Shade Hoody from REI.

  • Convertible/zip-off pants: These can be a game changer when the temperature rises. David is a big fan of the KUHL Renegade convertible pants. Emma likes the KUHL Trekr pants, which are not convertible but can be converted to capris using the built-in bottom bungee.

  • Light jacket or fleece: For cool nights and early morning game drives. David swears by his Patagonia Micro Puff jacket. Emma prefers [Product}.

  • Wide-brimmed hat: Sun protection for those who don't like wearing sun hoodies. If you go this route, make sure it has a chin strap.

  • Footwear: Closed-toe, comfortable walking shoes or boots. Sandals for the lodge. David loves Salomon X Ultra boots because they are extremely lightweight, waterproof, and durable. Emma likes Columbia because they are comfortable and cute.


Gear


  • Binoculars: A good pair of 8x42 or 10x42 makes a solid, all-around choice. David's binoculars of choice are a pair of Vortex 10x42, but he keeps a pair of ultra-portable Swarovski 8x25 on-hand too.

  • Camera with zoom lens: If you’re a photographer, a 200mm to 400mm lens is typically recommended.

  • Reusable water bottle: To stay hydrated. Most anything can work here, from Nalgene to Hydro Flask. We prefer CamelBak-style reservoirs paired with a daypack that has a hydration sleeve.

  • Small daypack: To keep all your gear organized and close-at-hand for game drives. We are both big fans of the Cotopaxi Lagos 15L, which has a hydration sleeve -- but it has been discontinued. Good substitutes would be the Cotopaxi Elquis 18L or the Patagonia Terravia 14L. If you plan to bring a lot of photography gear, we recommend the Peak Design Outdoor Pack 25L (though it is considerably more expensive).

  • Power bank: To keep all of your gadgets charged. We use the Anker MagGo 10,000mAh. You may prefer to opt for a solar rechargeable bank though if you tend to drain your battery quickly. However, buyer beware -- we have had very mixed results with these, so your mileage may vary.

  • Universal power adapter: Here's one we like that has plenty of USB slots and is convertible to work for over 200 countries. Note that this adapter will not work for Type M sockets, so if you are going to South Africa (which has a mixture of Type M, Type N, and Type C sockets), you will want to pick up a South Africa plug adapter.


Health & Safety


  • Sunscreen: Minimum SPF 50

  • Lip balm: Minimum SPF 30

  • Insect repellent: We recommend choosing one with picaridin. It's just as effective as DEET, and more environmentally friendly.

  • Basic medical kit: No need to go crazy here -- just the essentials, such as adhesive bandages, antibacterial ointment, pain relievers, antihistamines, anti-diarrheal, and rehydration salts.

  • Prescription medications


Family Safari Kit (if Bringing Kids)


  • Mini binoculars

  • Notebook

  • Wildlife Field Guide



What Not to Bring


This list wouldn't be complete without pointing out a few no-no's.


  • Bright whites or blue clothing: These can attract tsetse flies.

  • Drones: Banned in national parks.

  • Excessive luggage: Most safari camps limit you to soft-sided bags and 15–20 kg (33–44 lbs) per person. See our resource on One-Bag Travel for tips on how to accomplish this.



Plan Your Safari with Ease


Packing well is the difference between a seamless safari and a frustrating one. We'll send you a personalized packing checklist based on your destination and season – because Botswana in July isn't the same as South Africa in November. Ready to book? Contact us today!

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