PACKING FOR YOUR SAFARI

With your Leadwood Holidays safari adventure just around the corner, the excitement is building. But now comes the task of packing, particularly with those smaller planes and strict baggage limits to consider. So, how do you pack efficiently for the safari of a lifetime? Let's find out!

Through years of guiding guests on unforgettable safaris, we’ve learned that crafting the perfect safari bag is an acquired skill, and it often takes more than one trip to get it just right. Between luggage restrictions and unpredictable weather, knowing what to bring and what to leave behind can be tricky.

So, we’ve compiled some handy tips to help simplify the process and make your packing stress-free...

Weather matters

Understanding the climate in each location you’ll be visiting is key when planning your safari wardrobe. While we’re always here to help with specifics, here’s a general breakdown to guide you:

In East and Central Africa, the tropical climate remains fairly consistent throughout the year, influenced more by altitude than by season. For instance, Kenya ranges from coastal areas at sea level to high plateaus above 2,000m, with some mountain peaks soaring over 5,000m. Higher elevations experience cooler mornings and evenings.

The landscape also plays a role. In areas like Rwanda’s rainforest, expect humidity and rain all year, while the wide-open savannahs of Tanzania and Kenya have more distinct rainy and dry seasons. The primary rainy season runs from April to June, followed by a drier period until September, with another brief rainy spell from October to December.

Choosing the right luggage

Your choice of bag can make or break your safari packing experience. It needs to be lightweight yet durable, flexible enough to fit into small aircraft compartments, and tough enough to endure rough handling. 

Duffel bags are your best option. Not only are they spacious and easy to manoeuvre, but they’re also compact and ideal for safari travel. When choosing a bag, pay attention to its weight when empty—lightweight bags maximise your capacity under strict baggage allowances. Many small flights between safari camps enforce weight limits, which typically range from 12 to 20kg (26 to 44 lbs). Be sure to confirm these limits before departure with us.

Avoid bags with retractable handles and wheels, as they add unnecessary weight. Opt for a design with lockable, concealed zips to prevent damage during handling. Also, minimise external straps to avoid snags during airport transfers. Finally, check that the bag’s material is weather-resistant, as your luggage may face rain or dust on your safari journey.

Packing strategies

Packing light, breathable, and layered clothing is the way to go. Here are the essential items we recommend:

All-year essentials

3 to 4 t-shirts

A couple of long-sleeved shirts

2 or 3 pairs of shorts or cargo trousers

2 pairs of long trousers

A lightweight jacket (windbreaker or waterproof)

A couple of light sweaters

Swimsuit

Comfortable shoes: sandals, walking shoes, and flip-flops

A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses

For colder months/regions:

A fleece or lightweight puffer jacket

Warm socks, a beanie, scarf, and gloves

Thermal layers

Sturdy walking boots

Choose clothes that can be mixed and matched, and remember, most safari lodges offer laundry services, so you can pack fewer items. Some regions may have specific cultural considerations — particularly regarding laundry practices — so be prepared to wash your own undergarments in certain locations.

When it comes to colours, stick to neutral tones like khaki, beige, grey, and brown, which blend well with the natural environment. Avoid white (which stands out and gets dirty easily) and black, as it attracts insects and absorbs heat.

Toiletries and personal items

Most safari lodges provide complimentary toiletries like shampoo, soap, and lotion, so you can save space by leaving these behind. However, if you prefer your own products, pack small, travel-sized containers. Ensure any medications are packed, along with prescriptions for any controlled substances you may need. To avoid leaks, pack toiletries in a waterproof bag, and double bag them in case of spills. This extra layer of protection ensures your clothes remain safe during transit.

Once you’ve gathered everything, lay it out in front of you and organise it by category. This will help you decide how best to pack to maximise space.

Packing cells are great for this—they keep clothes and items organised within the bag and make unpacking much easier when moving between camps. Alternatively, rolling your clothes can prevent creases and help you fit more in. Shoes should be packed in plastic bags to keep your clothing clean.

Carry-on essentials

A lightweight, durable carry-on bag, such as a backpack, is ideal for safari travel. Make sure it has secure compartments for your travel documents, wallet, and any personal items you’ll need on the journey, such as a tablet, phone, or reading materials. Always keep valuables in your carry-on, not your checked luggage.

For photography enthusiasts, safari trips can mean carrying heavy camera gear. To keep it light, pack a wide-angle lens for landscapes, a telephoto lens (300mm+) for wildlife, and consider a camera bag that can double as a carry-on.

With these tips in hand, you’ll be prepared to pack efficiently and effectively for your safari adventure, allowing you to focus on the incredible experiences that await you.

If you have any questions or need clarification on anything at all, please get in touch and let us guide you through the preparation process! See you soon!