Co-founder and expert safari guide Tayla McCurdy provides her top recommendations on what to pack for your next safari – and what goodies to leave space for when you arrive.
Every safari includes an important decision – not just where to go, but what to bring! Packing is more than logistics – it’s an act of intention, especially for sustainability minded travelers. By packing smartly, you not only respect airline restrictions and environmental impact, but you can also support the communities you’re visiting.
Here are my suggestions for how to get it right.
Why packing – and your baggage type – matters
From conservation concerns to regional baggage limits, traveling to remote wilderness areas means thinking carefully about what you carry. Most safaris involve light aircraft transfers, and these come with strict baggage rules.
Example baggage rules as of May 2025:
- Airlink (Southern Africa): 20 kg total in soft-sided bags
- Safarilink (East Africa): 15 kg total including hand luggage and cameras
- Scenic Air (Namibia): 20 kg soft bag limit with dimension restrictions
Rigid suitcases don’t fit into small cargo holds, so soft duffel bags are often mandatory on safari. Knowing this in advance helps avoid fees or, worse, having to leave gear behind.
What to pack: Essential safari gear
When preparing what to bring with you, focus on comfort, practicality and respect for the environment.
Clothing
- Neutral tones like olive, beige or khaki to blend into the bush during walks (a bit of colour or white when you’re in the safari vehicle is okay)
- Long-sleeve shirts and trousers for sun and insect protection
- A fleece or jacket for cool mornings and evenings
- A wide-brimmed hat and UV sunglasses
- Swimwear for pools or bush spas
Footwear
- One pair of sturdy walking shoes or boots
- One pair of sandals or slip-ons for camp
Tech and gear
- Binoculars (8×42 is a solid choice for safari)
- Camera gear if you’re a photographer, plus spare batteries and memory cards. Insider tip: ask about renting photography gear, like long lenses, that you wouldn’t normally have or use. They’ll be ready for you upon arrival and don’t contribute to your baggage weight!
- A universal travel adapter and power bank
- Solar charger if traveling off-grid
Health and safety
- Personal medications and prescriptions
- A basic first aid kit with antiseptic, antihistamines and pain relief
- High-SPF sunscreen and insect repellent (DEET-free if possible)
- A reusable water bottle (filtered if possible)
Extras that make a difference
- A journal or sketchbook for creative reflection
- A lightweight scarf or kikoi, which can double as sun cover or a picnic mat
- A dry bag for gear during boat trips or wet weather
What to buy once you’re there: think local, ethical and useful
Buying on location lightens your luggage and deepens your impact. Every dollar spent in a community uplifts livelihoods and preserves local culture.
Good items to buy on arrival
- Handwoven kikoi or shuka cloths for use on safari or at the lodge
- Locally made skincare and toiletries, often crafted from indigenous botanicals
- Artisanal gifts like beaded jewelry, carved items or hand-stitched textiles. (If you’re interested, we can include a visit to an organization like Mulberry Mongoose, who turn metal from poachers’ snares into striking jewelry.)
- Safari hats, wraps or bags made by community cooperatives
- Seek out vetted fair-trade collectives or lodge-curated gift shops that reinvest in the community. Ask your guide for recommendations.
What not to bring
Forget packing these items in order to save space, reduce your footprint and respect your destination(s):
- Plastic bags (they are banned in several African countries)
- Loud or brightly colored clothing that can disturb wildlife
- Disposable toiletries or single-use plastics
- Drone equipment (often illegal in national parks) – Note: we don’t permit them on Aperture Travel safaris.
- Flash photography gear unless explicitly permitted
Sustainable swaps and smart tips
- Switch to reef-safe, biodegradable toiletries. Many safari camps use open greywater systems.
- Use a refillable toiletry kit and pack solid shampoo bars to avoid leaks and reduce plastic
- Bring your own reusable tote for local shopping
- Download field guides and maps in advance to avoid reliance on spotty mobile data
Leave space for souvenirs – and stories
Packing light allows room for what you’ll bring home that can’t be weighed: memories, relationships and a deeper connection to the wild. But it also leaves space for tangible mementos that do good – items made by local artists whose craft keeps communities resilient.
Final thoughts
Responsible travel starts at home, with a suitcase and a packing list that reflects your values. When you pack consciously, you honor the journey ahead, the people you’ll meet and the planet we all share.
Need help deciding what’s essential for your safari? Our travel experts are happy to share packing ideas tailored to your destination, season and style of safari. Just reach out or DM us on Instagram!
About the Author
Tayla McCurdy is an experienced South African safari guide and TV personality, passionate conservationist and the co-founder of Aperture Travel.
