From breathtaking landscapes and tropical climate to unique wildlife and amazing cultures, there’s plenty to see, do and immerse yourself in Africa. After all, who hasn’t dreamt of the magical African safari? However, the most crucial part of getting the most out of your travel to Africa starts with proper planning which includes picking the right season, deciding your destinations and packing appropriately, especially if this is your maiden trip to the region.
We all know that one person who tends to overpack for a short trip. The last thing you want is to pack an entire wardrobe of shoes for a two-week trip. The opposite is also true; you don’t want to under-pack for a journey that takes you to the other side of the world. That’s why we put together a handy packing guide for an awesome trip to Africa.
Important Packing Essentials
(1) Water Bottle – Kool8
The sun is always out in Africa, and the heat can take a toll on your body. That’s why you need to have a quality water bottle handy. After all, it pays to stay hydrated throughout your trip. It’s good for your mood, your heart, your immunity, and energy levels. Well, the last thing you want is to struggle with a dry mouth on your safari – it will distract you from enjoying and appreciating the landscapes, wildlife, culture and all the goodies Africa has to offer.
A refillable water bottle means that you will not have to purchase plastic water bottles every so often. The cost can rack up pretty quick. That’s why we think every traveler headed to Africa should have Kool8 water bottle. This all-stainless steel water bottle is as stylish as it comes, and can hold up to 18 ounces (half a liter) of water or tea – it’s your choice!
It is double-walled with top-notch vacuum insulation which means your drinking water will remain cool for more than 24 hours. That’s a whole day of refreshingly cold water in the African sun! What we are even more excited is that 20% of the proceeds go to making sure villages in third-world countries get clean water. You will probably meet people whose lives have been changed by this bottle. It’s no wonder it was named one of the best water bottles of the year.
Despite packing all these amazing features, Kool8 is pleasantly affordable, and you can pick from a variety of 5 colors – green, red, grey, blue and pink
(2) Sunscreen Lotion – Sport Face Sunblock Lotion
This is the perfect lotion-cum-sunscreen for African weather. It’s rated SPF 70+
(3) Sunglasses – Revo Baseliner
There’s a boatload of sunglasses out there, and you should buy at least a pair. They should be equipped with UV protection to safeguard your eyes against all day sun. You won’t go wrong with a pair of Revo Baseliner sunglasses. They nose-padded for non-slip experience during hikes.
(4) LED torches/headlamp
If you plan to camp or use satellite lodges, be sure to pack these for navigation at night.
(5) Rucksack – Face Base Camp Duffel
A rucksack will come in especially useful for picnics and outings during your stay. Opt for North Face Base Camp duffel. It’s fairly lightweight, sturdy and has plenty of compartments and roomy interior.
(6) Closed-toe, Hiking Shoes – Merrell Moab Ventilators
You don’t want to walk in open shoes or sandals unless you plan to go to the beach. For safari trips in Africa, try Merrell Moab Ventilators. They have thick-rubber soles, well-ventilated and are quite sturdy.
(7) Insect Repellent – Sawyer Picaridin Insect Repellent Spray
Sawyer Picaridin is the best DEET insect repellent for African conditions. It’ll get the job done and doesn’t irritate.
(8) Quality Camera – Olympus Stylus TOUGH TG-3 Digital Camera
We have come to expect a high level of quality and design quality from Olympus cameras. And Stylus TOUGH TG-3 is your best bet.
(9) Lip Balm – SW Basics
SW Basics lip balms are deep-moisturizing, which is exactly what you want for protection against dry air, wind, and dust that’s common in African dry season.
(10) African Travel Guides – Lonely Planet
While the internet has percolated through many African countries, most areas worth visiting have patchy connections. Get a highly detailed travel guide for whichever country or region you plan to visit. Lonely Planet African Guides are spot-on.
(11) Sarong – 1 World Sarongs
Sarongs are a match made in heaven for African trips. They help you look adorable in a skirt, dry off after taking a bath or cover up at the beach. Either way, ensure it’s a decent-length sarong because most African countries are still conservative when it comes to dressing.
(13) Lightweight Shirts
Chances are, you will visit Africa during the dry, warm season. As such, you every shirt you take should be light-colored, lightweight and loose. It can get very hot, and tight shirts will do you no good.
(14) Smartphone and Travel Charger
You will need your smartphone more than you can think. After all, you will be taking selfies like crazy, which can drain the battery fast. That’s why you need a travel charger or an adaptor like Plug M.
Warm Weather Essentials
It’s no secret is warm or hot almost year-round. To cool off, pack these:
- Swimwear
- Shorts
- Lightweight, breathable cotton tees
- A hat or a baseball cap
- Harem pants or any other loose-fitting items
Cold Weather Essentials
Rainy season can get chilly in Africa. To stay warm and cozy, ensure to pack the following:
- Woolen or heavy-knit socks
- Thermals – Saxx Blacksheep Fly Performance will do the trick here
- Comfy and warm jackets especially down style jackets – they can fit snugly into your day pack or rucksack.
- Beanies – this is for extra cold months of June and July
- Woolen jumpers and long trousers for evening excursions and outings
- Bag liners – if you plan to camp or sleep out in a tent, be sure to pack quality sleeping bag liners. They are lightweight yet can add plenty of warmth.
- Warm fleece – Any good-quality fleece looks great with that classic feel that’s perfect for any casual occasion. A double-sided fleece like Synchilla Snap T Pullover by Patagonia is comfortable, soft, and warm enough