Here is a list of what we packed (and should have packed) for South Africa. We went casual all the way, which fit in well with the local scene.
- Passports and copies of passports
- Copies of Children’s Birth Certificates (we did not pack these which was a HUGE mistake)
- Road Map (another thing we should have packed!)
- Print outs of Itineraries and Reservations
- Dry Shampoo (in case of water shortage)
- Baby/Hand Wipes (ditto, also good for car trips)
- Usual Toiletries
- Mosquito Lotion – We used Picaridin lotion, but Deet is best.
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Leave Jewelry at Home
- Hiking Pants – quick dry
- Hiking Shorts – quick dry
- Jeans
- Casual Wear Shorts
- Leggings or Sweats for comfort wear
- T-shirts – quick dry and normal
- Long sleeve t-shirts for layering
- Sweatshirt or sweater
- Mid-weight Jacket
- Rain Jacket
- Sun Hat
- Knit Hat (if traveling in the mountains or open air, early morning safari drives)
- Warm Gloves (ditto)
- Hiking Shoes or Sneakers with treads
- Hiking socks and regular socks
- Flip flops for community showers and beach
- Bathing Suit
- PJs
- Underclothes
I pre-sprayed our safari clothing with Picaridin clothing spray a few days before our trip, giving them time to air out before packing. The stuff works well!
I also read you shouldn’t wear red clothing (it attracts animals) nor white clothing (it startles animals). Neutral colors are best.
- Binoculars (get good ones!)
- Wildlife Field Guide and Travel Books
- Cameras and extra SD Cards
- Camera and Phone Chargers
- Cell Phones (but take them away from your kids!)
- Playing Cards
- Journals/Pens
- Books
- Drawing/Coloring Books
You don’t need to wear “safari clothes” on safari. You will be staying in your car so wear comfortable clothing. Layers are always a good idea.
Hope this helps!
