As with any travel excursion, you must bear in mind that less is really more when it comes to packing. Make the wise decision to pack lightly for your African safari by knowing exactly what essentials to include. You can make your entire trip more pleasant simply by minimizing excessive weight in your luggage.

Your chosen safari attire really depends on seasonal considerations. The climate is typically warm throughout the year with tropical temperatures ranging from 75°F to 95°F. Although, if you’re traveling to Botswana, eastern Zimbabwe, or the Namibian desert, be advised that temperatures can dip down to a chilly 10°F on winter evenings and mornings.

Select light, neutral-colored clothing in order to deflect the beaming African sun. Your safari attire should include two pairs of shorts, two T-shirts or sleeveless khaki shirts, two light long-sleeve shirts for bug and sun protection, two pairs of long pants, sandals, walking sneakers or light boots, a sun hat, and a light windbreaker.

You should only need to pack three changes of clothing for your entire stay, as most safari destinations include laundry facilities. Think twice before packing copious personal items because most hotels and game lodges supply toiletries, including soap, shampoo and insect repellent.

Don’t forget to include your binoculars, malaria tablets, sunscreen, UV-resistant sunglasses, and a basic first-aid kit. Be sure to bring your camera equipment to capture some once-in-a-lifetime memories in the mesmerizing African bush. As a general guideline when packing for an African safari,

we recommend luggage be no more than 44 pounds (this limit can vary) to accommodate the weight requirements on many of the light aircraft charter flights between safari locations.

Stack of Luggage on the African Savannah