What you pack all depends on whether you are going on a two week holiday, the time of year you are travelling and how you are travelling. Here’s how you pack for Africa.
Choosing your Suitcase, Bag or Backpack (Rucksack)
If you are going on an organised safari you may be limited to baggage size you can take on your safari vehicle – so check first with your operator.
If you are travelling independently it is sensible that you take a backpack (Rucksack) rather than a suitcase – you may have to walk distances to find housing etc. and a backpack will make like a lot easier.
It is sensible to line you baggage with polythene to protect it against dust and damp. Make sure that it is the right size or a good sturdy make and sits comfortably on your back.
Clothing
The rule is take as little as possible – it all depends on which area of Africa you are travelling around and the climate at time of travel
1 x Long-sleeved shirts/blouse,
2 x Light long trousers will help protect you against the sun and insect bites.
2 x Skirts/Dresses
3 x T/Shirts
2 x shorts
1 x Swimsuit
1 x small towel (Sarong is better)
1 x Hat that shades your neck
3 x pairs Socks
Cotton Underwear and socks
1 x good pair of well broken in Walking boots
1 x Plimsolls/Sandals or flipflops
General Accessories
Pocket knife – Swiss Army
Small Sewing kit
Twisted elasticated clothesline
Electrical adapter
Camera, film and extra batteries
Binoculars
Small battery operated alarm clock
Day pack
Sun glasses
Ziplock Plastic bags for electronics and film Lighter
Small torch (Flashlight) black outs are frequent in most of Africa
Mosquito net impregnated with permethrin
Water Bottle
First Aid and Toiletries
Toiletries: toothpaste, soap, shampoo – although you can purchase these items along the way
Pkt. baby wipes or wet wipes (if travelling in distant regions).
Malaria tablets
Insect repellent containing DEET
Some kind of pain killer
Antiseptic/Antihistamine Cream
Band aid and bandage
Sun lotion
Immodium and other Anti-diarrhoea medicine
Rehydrating Salts
Iodine tablets and water filters to purify water if bottled water is not available.
Prescription medications: Make sure you have enough to last during your trip, as well as a copy of the prescription(s).If you wear glasses or contact lenses, you should have with you a spare pair of glasses or enough lenses and cleaning solutions to last your trip. Also carry with you a copy of your prescription.
Bearing in mind the widespread AIDS epidemic, syringes & needles (in more remote areas these may be in short supply) and condoms or femidoms are necessary items.