Packing List - Safari in a Tropical Climate
HOW TO PACK LIGHT ON YOUR AFRICAN (tropical) SAFARI
There is no bad weather, only bad clothing.
Trekking endangered mountain Gorillas in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is a thrilling, unforgettable experience. However, the environment can be demanding: from nice warm days, to hot and humid - and don’t forget the sudden downpours. Mountain Gorillas live in a rainforest! Then there are dusty rides in open vehicles and the “joy” of living out of your bag for two weeks.
Packing for an African safari can feel daunting, but it doesn’t need to be. This packing list will enable you to travel with only a carry-on bag while ensuring you have everything you need. You will pack like a pro, focused on a capsule safari wardrobe and a curated list of the essential safari gear.
What’s the Downside to This Single Small Bag Approach?
You will have to hand-wash one set of underwear and a pair of socks every evening. Trust me, it’s worth it.
Without further ado, here is the Les Medley minimalist, battle-proven, safari packing list with everything you need and a few tips on what you don’t.
Luggage Guidelines
The first step to packing light is to have the right containers. You will need a carry-on bag and a small daypack.
The “CARRY ON” BAG 2 Week Safari bag
I heard Peter Greenberg speak at a travel conference a few years ago, and he had a quote that I have stolen and used repeatedly: “There are two kinds of airline bags — carry-on and lost.” Traveling without checked luggage speeds up your arrival process, makes clearing customs easier, and significantly reduces your chances of a lost bag.
And if you plan on using this guide for other safaris, keep in mind that many safari operators limit luggage to 15kg (~33lbs) total. With those restrictions, your only option is a carry-on-size bag and a small backpack anyway.
Here are some general guidelines for the perfect safari carry-on 2-week bag:
The bag should fit international carry-on standards. Some U.S. carriers allow slightly larger bags, but if you need an internal flight, these may not be allowed as carry-ons. The standard limit is typically around 21.5 x 15.5 x 9 inches. A 40-liter bag is about right.
It should be soft-sided. A duffle bag or travel pack is best, but if you must have wheels, choose a bag with soft sides. Soft-sided bags pack more easily in safari vehicles and will be required for small bush planes.
The exterior should be a durable, waterproof fabric. Your bag will probably see some rough wear.
Have good-quality zippers. And compression straps on the sides can help keep everything inside secure. The right packing arrangement can also take strain off the zippers.
Our Favorite Bags for a 2-week Safari
Top Bag Pick for a 2-week Safari
Osprey Transporter Wheeled Duffle 40. The exterior is “highly water-resistant NanoTough(TM) fabric with a large external end pocket, and strong zippers protected by a rain flap (!). This bag is considered a “heavy gear hauler.” Osprey makes other great bags, but the Transporter series is the toughest and most versatile. I like it so much that I bought a Transporter Wheeled Duffle 90 for extreme-cold travel, when the gear is bulkier. Sustainability: Osprey has a third-party Bluesign Rating for almost all of their products, including this bag.
Patagonia. The Black Hole Wheelie (37L) or Wheeled Duffle (70L). The 34L may be a bit small; the 70L is definitely not a carry-on. The Exterior is water-resistant, but 100% recycled body fabric, lining, webbing, and TPU-film laminate. These bags are made in fair-trade factories.
There are others, just remember to keep the bag small, 40L should do it. If you must have a larger bag, keep it as small as possible and make sure you follow the guislines above.
The Carry on / Backpack
Your second bag is a backpack. To be frank, I usually stow my 40L bag and carry my backpack onto the plane. My backpack has my binoculars, camera, electronics, toiletries, a change of underclothes, sweater, extra reading and sunglasses, a couple of protein bars, and paper copies of all my tickets, visa, passport, itinerary, emergency numbers, and all other important documents. Why? The internet and WIFI may not be available when you absolutely need them.
If I’m bringing meds, they go in the backpack and stay with me through the flight(s). Anything that will make your life miserable if you don’t have it, is difficult or expensive to replace, or that you need in an emergency, goes in the backpack and on the plane with you.
REI Flash 22. A 22L, serviceable, lightweight, neutral-colored daypack with exterior pockets - this is about as big as you can go; otherwise, it will not fit under your seat on flights. It carries everything I need for a day in the bush and includes water-bottle pockets, a flap for wet rain gear, and snack pockets.
Osprey Daylight, about 20-22L. This is Kristen’s go-to. I can attest that she carries every conceivable emergency item for our groups, plus all her personal gear. And she always looks comfortable. You may also like the Sportlight 22 or Sportight 20 Hydration Bags
Packing Cubes Keep You Organized and On Time
Packing cubes are an essential. I love these by Eagle Creek.
Packing cubes are your secret weapon. An African safari usually involves short stays in various camps. You will be living out of your duffel bag. I suggest using colorful packing cubes to organize your clothing and personal items. It makes packing and unpacking easy, and you can find things when you are running late for the dawn game drive. I never travel without my packing cubes. Period.
Notes from Les:
● I prefer Synlon or some other light, slick material. These are squishable, and the fabric slides as you compress the bag, making packing easier. You can also see through these types without needing mesh, which can let in dust or snag as you pack. Look for waterproof or water-resistant bags.
You can often find perfectly serviceable ones at TJ Maxx or Target.
Eagle Creek: My favorite are Eagle Creek. They have four fabric styles, many shapes and sizes, come in waterproof or water-resistant, and are available to buy in sets. I have a water-resistant set that includes one bag with a “dirty clothes” side for when I’m feeling lazy. I love the handles. My Eagle Creeks have proven to be reliable over at least five years of travel. REI and Amazon both carry them. But you can often find perfectly serviceable cubes at TJ Maxx or Target.
What to Bring for a 2-Week Tropical Safari
Pro Tips for Safari Clothes
The proven way to stay comfortable in the African bush is to dress like an onion (layers). Versatility is key. Here are some guidelines:
Go with earth tones.
Neutral colors are less likely to disturb wildlife and less likely to show the inevitable game-drive dust.Go solid.
It is generally easier to pack mostly solid colors, rather than prints. They are easier to mix and match.No black or blue.
Dark colors absorb heat, and bright colors, especially blue, attract insects. Tetse flies are the most notorious, but many insects are attracted to darker blue colors. Some guides prefer you not wear white, while others are ambivalent. I try to avoid bright whites, especially on night game drives.No camouflage or overtly military-looking garb.
In some countries, camouflage clothing is illegal; in others, it is a sensitive issue. Leave it at home.Laundry Service:
Many safari camps and lodges offer laundry service for a fee. However, laundry services at the camps are convenient but basic; hand washing and line drying are not uncommon. If you have a favorite clothing item or one that needs special care, don’t bring it.Camp laundry services do not generally wash your “unmentionables.”
This is why we wash our underwear and socks every night in the sink. (see below for foldable Hangers with clothespins)Best Safari Fabrics.
Stay with quick-dry fabrics that offer UV protection and insect repellency. Merino wool for underlayers is fine (hand-wash it). Cotton knit (think t-shirts, socks, and undies) is not great, it takes too long to dry. Jeans are OUT except on the plane.Style! This is a safari. The “safari look” came about for good reasons: Comfort, convenience, and environmental appropriateness. Unless you are also spending time in major cities, sports coats and dress pants, and dresses or skirts are not needed. And leave your good shoes at home, too.
Essential Clothing for a 2-Week Tropical Safari
Base Layers
✓ Underwear x 3 -4 pairs
People tend to ignore this layer - but comfort starts here! Make sure they are quick-drying fabric. Cotton may not dry overnight. Read this article from REI Check out: ExOfficio
Pro Tip: Keep an extra pair of underwear in your backpack.✓ T-Shirts x 3-4
For tropical regions, short sleeves are fine; moisture-wicking and loose are best, and of course, as quick-drying as possible. Some of our guests swear by tropical-weight wool. They hold up extremely well, are moisture-wicking, and odor-resistant. REI is also a good source✓ Socks x 3-4 pairs
Second Layer - Shirts
✓ Long-sleeve, button-down with collar x 3 to 4 shirts
Fabric with UV protection and insect repellent. Yes, the temperatures will probably be warm to hot. Long sleeves protect from the
sun and help with insects. Fishing shirts are great - I like Orvis, the LL Bean “No Fly Zone” can be a little stiff at first, but nice, Colombia, and there are others.Second Layer - Pants
✓Long-leg Pants x 3 to 4 pairs (Convertible)
Convertible pants are a great fit for warm or tropical climates. They can be found in technical fabrics like this pair from Patagonia, or in natural fibers. Long-leg pants protect against UV rays and insects. The zip-off legs give you options.You can also find good pant options in cargo-style or straight-leg styles. Look at the usual suspects: LL Bean, REI, Orvis, Patagonia, for the best quality. Remember, these items should last through many years of exploration.
Outer Layer
Mornings, evenings, or mountainous regions can get cool even in the tropics. You’ll want to have an outer layer that can come on and off quickly and not take up a lot of packing space
✓ Fleece or light jacket x 1
A fleece is always a good go-to item. Patagonia makes its fleece from recycled materials. They now have a lightweight, quick-dry version with or without a hood.Rain Gear - Your best friend in the tropics.
In the tropics, your rain gear decides whether you have a great or miserable experience. Invest in the best rain gear you can find. I like jackets and pants that fold small, are lightweight, and hide easily in a backpack.
Notes: The rain jacket should fit over your shirt and merino hoodie or sweater. You don't need a multitude of technical features or extreme durability. A lightweight 2-layer moisture-permeable membrane jacket is sufficient. I like the Marmot and OR (Outdoor Research) My OR Helium set folds into a small pouch, lives in my backpack, and has saved me many times in Africa and South America. Our D: W team member, Kristen, suggests Helly Hansen as a good, economical alternative.
✓ Rain Jacket x 1
There are only two “must-haves”: 1) an interior pocket or water-tight exterior pocket for your phone, and 2) a hood.✓ Rain Pants x 1
Rain Pants are a top layer and should slip easily over your pants.✓ Rain Hat x 1
Waterproof rain hat with a brim to keep water out of your eyes. A chin chord is the best idea, where there is heavy rain, there can be heavy wind, too. Check out OR, REI has a great selection. NOTE: Get a hat with UV protection, like the Ultra Adventure Storm✓ Small waterproof or other lightweight zippered bag x 1
To holds your raingear inside your backpack✓ Rain fly for daypack: aka a backpack rain cover, x 1
This is a waterproof layer for your daypack on wetter days✓ Large plastic garbage bag x 1
We do not want single-use plastic on tours - this is the only exception. Fold it up, keep it in the zipper bag. Mine was unused for years before I needed it in Mexico for wet gear that needed to be packed before it dried.FootGear
Take care of your feet, and they will take care of you!
✓ Hiking Boots, lightweight or Trail Shoes x 1 pair
I like a mid-height for extra support, especially if they're for hiking or elevation gain, but get what is most comfortable for you. Look for good support, excellent tread, and water-resistant. For me, Merrell (Moab line) works the best, but Keen is a proven brand and there are others. Head to an REI store and let the experts find your best shoe or boot. It’s worth the effort.✓ Open Shoe - Lodge shoe x 1 Pair
It’s really nice to take off your boots or trail shoes at the lodge and let your feet go free - but not TOO free! “Safari” means insects, small lizards and other reptiles, thorns, and lots of things you may not be looking for when you want to relax. You want a sandal that offers a bit of protection, as well as “freedom.”Keen makes nice options, not glamorous, but hardly, and protective, while comfortable and airy. Once you’ve safari’d with Keens, they will become a “must have” for all your outdoor adventures.
✓ Flip Flops x 1 Pair
Walking barefoot is just not a good idea on safari - inside the lodge or out. I bring a pair of flip-flops as “indoor slippers” and for times when I just don’t feel like showering barefoot for whatever reason. Go Fancy or simple - Reef has them, and so probably does your local CVS.✓ Socks x 3 or 4 pairs
The REI Co-op Flash Merino Wool Lightweight crew socks are great summer-weight hiking socks and ideal for a safari. They are naturally breathable, sweat-wicking, quick-drying, and odor-resistant. Anything like this will work.
Sleep Wear
My preference is to always be ready to jump when on a safari. You don’t know when a nocturnal once-in-a-lifetime species or opportunity will appear. If it means going outside (safely) to see it, you don’t want to waste time!
✓ Sleepwear - 1 set
I usually bring a longer t-shirt and long-legged bottoms, but anything you are comfortable in will do.
Other Essentials For a Tropical Safari
Whether in Colombia, like these foks, or Uganda or the Arctic, A good pair of binoculars is vital to get all you can out of your safari. Your guide will supply scopes where appropriate. Image: Destination: Wildlife
Binoculars
Traveling to see wildlife or birds without binoculars is a waste of time and money. Period. Invest in a good pair, they last for decades and more. Not only do good binoculars bring distant wildlife closer to you, but their light-gathering capacity also helps you see at dusk and dawn. Traveling as a couple? I recommend one pair of good binoculars per person, so that neither of you misses out when viewing the same once-in-a-lifetime hunt or nesting bird.
✓ Binoculars - what to look for
While this depends on the quality of the optics, the general rule is that 10x42 binoculars offer the ideal combination of magnification (10x) and aperture (42mm) for optimal wildlife viewing. That said, if you have a good pair of 8x binoculars, they will work fine. Waterproof is not necessary, but not a bad idea.✓ Binocular Harness
This is a must-have. They keep your neck from getting sore, and your binoculars from getting lost or hitting the ground. NOTE: Binoculars don’t bounce. Try B&H Photo for a good selection This Audubon article has a good binocular overview and a “how-to” video.Eye Wear
✓ Sunglasses 1 or 2 pairs
I like to have my sunglasses on a chain for fast on and off when using binoculars or a camera. Invest in a good pair and have a back-up just in case✓ Reading Glasses 1 to 3 pairs
I bring at least 3 pairs. There is nothing to do if you break or lose your glasses in the bush.Hydration Supplies
✓ Reusable Water Bottle x 1 or 2
There are no single-use plastic bottles on tour with Destination: Wildlife. A 1-liter insulated water bottle is indispensable on safari. Find one with a wide mouth in case you want to put ice in the bottle. 2 bottles aren't too many. You should be drinking constantly to keep yourself healthy. Drinking water will be supplied in areas where the water quality is questionable.✓ Electrolytes
Electrolyte packets or tablets are a necessity. Dehydration will cause headaches, nausea, dizziness - and then it gets worse. I put a packet in my water bottle every day.✓ Female Urinal:
These are some ideas for those of us who are not experts in outdoor relief.✓ Tissue or paper towels:
For everything. There are few to no restrooms once we are outside of the towns.✓ Hand Sanitizer
Insect Repellant
You will need insect repellent. The reason we are going to the tropics is to witness its amazing biodiversity, and that means bugs as well as beasts.
Start with the insect-repellent clothes mentioned above, and then: The question is what and how much to bring.You are limited to 3oz if you want to avoid checking your luggage. Insect sprays are widely available at camp and lodge shops. Bring a small amount for the first day or two, and as a backup. Then, purchase more once you arrive at the destination.
✓ 20% picaridin formulas are usually as effective as DEET (sometimes more so), don’t eat plastic, are not as messy, and have fewer adverse effects on the environment.
Insect repellent wipes are very convenient and not subject to the 3oz liquids rule. But keep in mind that you are bringing trash to someone else’s home. You need to dispose of these properly. I bring liquid, wrapped securely in paper towels and a waterproof bag for travel.Sunscreen
✓ Environmentally friendly sunscreen. While the term "reef-safe" sunscreen primarily applies to marine environments, nanoparticles, microplastics, and harmful chemicals are not beneficial for you or the environment. Reef-safe is a good way to go, even if the only water you’ll come into contact with is in the shower or rain. Thrive is a good choice; it’s chemical-free, water-resistant, reef-safe, and the bottle is made of recycled materials.
First Aid Kit
✓ I recommend a small personal first aid kit that includes: I recommend a small personal first aid kit. Keep it small; no need for a trauma kit. ● Electrolight packets ● Airborne or Emergen-C ● Ibuprofen ● Immodium ● Antihistamine (if you react to insect bites) ● Tweezers ● Band-aids of various sizes ● A couple of gauze pads and tape if you play with knives ● Disinfectant ● First aid cream or Neosporin Look here for a great analysis and recommendations by Health
Snacks.
✓ Part of the fun of travel is trying a new food - but sometimes you just need a snack or a break from “unusual.” I bring a few Kind bars, protein or granola bars, and maybe a package of nuts.
Hangers
✓ Folding hangers
To dry laundry or hang out wrinkles. I find they work better than clotheslines and are less trouble. You can pick up a set online, but I usually bring 3 hangers with me wherever I go. Look for ones with clothspins or clips. Target or Amazon are places to look. They are inexpensive life-savers!Laundry Sheets
✓ Biodegradable, please.
