Africa Packing List

We get it – packing for an epic trip like an African safari can be overwhelming. We felt the same way! Don’t fret – we have all of the answers for you.

As you start packing, here are some “don’t forget” items: 

• Passport (Ensure you have the required number of minimum blank pages available. Click here to search your destination’s requirements).
• Visas, if required (click here to search your destination’s requirements)
• Vaccination records, if required (click here to search your destination’s requirements)
• Credit Card (if traveling internationally, call credit card to let them know and check on foreign transaction fees). While most hotels will accept American Express, some smaller restaurants and businesses may not. We highly recommend traveling with a Mastercard or Visa.
• Local currency: small bills for tipping drivers, guides, butlers, etc.
• In South Africa, the locals appreciate gratuities in US Dollars. Please check with us on what the valid printed date is currently being accepted in the country (ex: when we went, the USD had to be printed in 2013, or later, to be valid).
• iPhone/Android charger
• Portable phone charger. We love this Anker brand.
• Prescriptions (keep in carry-on)
  • Anti-malarial if you’re heading to a high risk area (ex: Mozambique)
  • An antibiotic
• Medicines
  • Imodium
  • Hydration packs
  • Motion sickness prevention. Our favorite go-to is Bonine. It’s non-drowsy so you can keep on going!
  • Melatonin
  • Advil
  • Tylenol
• Ibuprofen or Goody’s Powder (pain killer for those achy backs and knees)
• Midnight Sleep Supplement for the long plane ride and adjusting to your new timezone
• Sunscreen (we love COOLA and this Supergoop mineral powder for on-the-go SPF refreshers)
• Chapstick with SPF. Our go-to is COOLA Liplux.
• Outlet converters. For South Africa, click here for our recommendation.
• Compression socks for the long flight. We love Wellow!
• Mosquito repellent wipes. Our go-to is Murphy’s.
• A rain jacket.
• Safari hat with drawstring and SPF coverage. Click here for Amazon option.
• Face wipes for a quick wipe off, like these individually wrapped options.
• Hand wipes. Great for the airplane, on safari, etc.
• Hand lotion.
• Sunglasses
• Binoculars (your safari lodge may provide these – please check with us before buying/packing)
• Small bag for safari gear (your safari lodge may provide these – please check with us before buying/packing)
• Headphones
• Good reading materials
• Cross-body bag (we love the Lulu Lemon crossbody)
• Backpack

What to leave at home:

• Blowdryers. Your hotels + lodges will provide these.