A trip to a Southern African safari lodge is a trip of a lifetime and planning it can become a little overwhelming at times. Packing for any trip remains one of the most stressful aspects of an adventure. Being prepared often can often make a good trip a great one. Therefore taking the right clothes, accessories and gear is of vital importance. Here are 5 tips to help reduce the inevitable packing stress.
Tip 1: Travel Light
Comfort will be your priority out in the African wilderness. Don’t pack more than you need. Your first instincts might tell you to pack your best, but looking flawless becomes inconsequential once you’ve immersed yourself in the African wild. I found that it is truly all about embracing nature.
Tip 2: Bring the right clothing
The right clothing makes a huge difference to your safari experience. The sun can be relentless so choose light clothing and, if you’re like me, bring something with sleeves because the Africa sun can get the best of us. Bring colors that blend into the savannah since you will most likely be going on walks and avoid wearing any loud colors or prints. The weather can change pretty quickly out there so be sure to bring a light jacket that’s easy to store once it heats up a bit. Six pure cotton shirts (a mix of short and long sleeved shirts is advised), two pairs of pants, two pairs of shorts and a jacket should be perfect for a 4-day trip. Bring a pair of walking or hiking shoes, a pair of trainers. I also find that flip-flops are ideal for your post hike relaxation session.
Tip 3: Who needs makeup?
Don’t bother packing your makeup. All I brought was some blush and foundation, which took all of two minutes to apply. If you know you’ll feel like dressing up a bit in the evening, then bring a small kit, but I quickly found that once you’re here there is no time or need for it.
Tip 4: Miscellaneous things you should pack
Pack sunscreen, it is probably one of the most important things on the list. Bring mosquito repellent and a little first aid kit (most tour companies and lodges have one, but I find its always best to bring your own). Don’t forget to bring any allergy or prescription medication you might need. You will be out in the wilderness, unable to run to the nearest pharmacy. Bring a nice small bag to carry everything for the day. You will definitely need some sunglasses. It’s a good idea to get a couple of cheap ones, since they tend to drop and break. Nothing hurts like losing your favorite sunglasses. Don’t forget you need to get all your vaccinations 2 weeks before leaving.
Tip 5: Hats
Bring a couple of hats. I brought a lovely floppy sun hat and a cap. I found that the floppy hat was nice for lazing in the sun, but a cap does a wonderful job of keeping your hair in check on a windy game drive.
