SOUTH AFRICAN SAFARI PACKING LIST - The Luxury Lifestyle Attache

For most people, going on safari is a trip of a lifetime. Hopefully, this South Africa packing list has everything you need so that you can pack with ease for your active adventure.

I am a die-hard carry-on only type of traveler. Learning that I could have my laundry done halfway through the trip made my carry-on style easily achievable!

A safari is outdoorsy and adventurous requiring the proper colors, gear and safety measures. Safari explorers are encouraged to wear neutral colors; tan, dark green or browns to blend in with the scenery; specifically avoiding bright colors and black clothing. To this New Yorker, not being able to wear black was inconceivable! After reading the insects are attracted to black; that was all I needed to know. Neutral colors it is! This would require some shopping but it’s all part of the adventure.

The weather in South Africa can be unpredictable so layers are optimal for the climate changes throughout the day. Having a waterproof jacket is a must.

Traveling to South Africa requires some preparation for a healthy trip. You should schedule an appointment with your doctor or visit a local health clinic to ensure that you have all the required vaccinations. You should consider getting immunized against Hep-A and Typhoid. Two weeks prior to my departure, I received my Hep-A shot. Four days prior to departure, I began taking Typhoid pills; one per day for four days. Two days prior to departure, I began my anti-malarial pills. You take one per day until the prescription is complete; 10 days.

Not a big fan of insects; a few days prior to packing, I treated my clothing with Permethrin Insect Spray (especially socks, since mosquitos like to bite your ankles). Let dry thoroughly and pack in a plastic bag to preserve the protection. The spray typically lasts through six washes or six weeks, whichever comes first. I also sprayed my suitcase and carryon to be extra cautious. https://sawyer.com/videos/permethrin-clothing-gear-insect-repellent

After doing some research, I purchased a Sawyer Water filter straw. There were mixed messages about drinking the water so I chose to side on the air of caution. The straw screws into most 16-ounce water bottles. https://www.amazon.com/Sawyer-Products-Water-Filtration-System/dp/B07C2WBFVM

This was the first trip I have purchased travel insurance. I used Travel Guard Insurance. They were very helpful and friendly. https://www.travelguard.com

Most lodges are casual so no need to pack heels or dress shoes. There is the opportunity to have your laundry done so you won’t need to pack as many outfits. This is a big help.

My list included:

3 pairs long pants
3 pairs cargo shorts or similar
6 short sleeve t-shirts and tank tops
3 long sleeve shirts
3 Sundresses
Swimsuit, cover-up and flip flops
Pajamas
Workout clothing and sneakers
Undergarments
10 pairs peds and 3 pairs socks
Casual shoes or sandals
Rain jacket
Safari hat
Sunglasses
Travel adapter
Travel size insect repellent with DEET

This may sound strange but pack some Ziploc bags; small and large. You may need to keep your phone, camera or other essentials dry.

Electricity: South Africa’s electricity supply is 220/230 volts and plug sockets are 3 round pins.

Safety: I am a firm believer in thinking positively. That doesn’t mean I don’t prepare. Some essential contact information in case of an emergency. Keep a copy of your passport, credit card, travel insurance and emergency contact in a separate location as backup.

MONEY MATTERS: The local currency in South Africa is the Rand (ZAR or R) which is divided into 100 cents. If you bring US money, take bills dated 2006 or later as older ones may not be accepted (as well as torn and dirty bills – the crisper the better!).

RECOMMENDED TIPS & GRATUITIES

Waiter/bar tender, Tour leader/Guides/Drivers, Porters

Service: 10-15% of the bill

Tour Leader/Guides/Drivers: 130 – 200 ZAR per person per day

Porter: 40 ZAR per item