What To Pack for Safari: Essential Accessories Advice
1. Binoculars
A pair of high-quality binoculars is arguably the number one safari packing must-have. The action doesn't always happen right up close. Having your own pair of binos allows you to watch wildlife and birds in detail even from a distance.
2. Bug spray
While packing insect repellent safari clothing is right at the top of the list of safari packing essentials, we always recommend backing up your bug protection strategy by applying and reapplying a reliable bug spray throughout the day. Our top choice is a DEET bug spray, but the choice is yours to make. It may be a good idea to buy some bug spray well before you travel to test it out and make sure that it not only offers a high level of efficacy against the flying and biting insects you may encounter at home, but also that it wears comfortably on your skin.
3. Sunscreen
In a similar vein to bug spray, always back up your sun protection plan with a reliable sunscreen. This is especially important for any exposed skin on the face, neck, and chest. Make sure you apply sunscreen when you zip off your convertible pant legs or roll up the sleeves of your long-sleeved safari shirt.
4. Wide-Brimmed Hat
A hat is another top safari packing essential. In packable styles, it is a useful accessory to have with you when you're out in the open on game drives, boating safaris, or walking safaris. Always choose a hat in a safari-suitable color - and opt for styles that have a 365-degree wide brim to protect the skin on your ears, neck, and face.
5. A scarf, neck gaiter, or kikoy and a beanie
Don't underestimate the wind chill factor on game drives. We always recommend a warm layer - and insulating accessories - to keep warm during chilly game drives and activities on safari. Our Vintage Print Head&Neck Scarf brings other benefits too. It is wind-resistant and has built-in UPF50+ sun protection. There are also eight ways to wear it, making it a handy bandana in windy, dusty conditions.
6. Ankle gaiters
If you are going on a walking safari or if bush walks are one of the activities on offer through your safari camp, ankle gaiters are a good addition. Offering bug protection and keeping debris out of your socks and trouser legs, gaiter up whenever life takes you off the trail.
7. Water bottle
It's important to stay hydrated while you're out and about on safari. While some lodges might supply you with a water bottle, it's always a good idea to have your own bladder or water bottle with you throughout your trip.
8. A smaller shoulder bag or backpack
It's a good idea to keep smaller items in a satchel, so they're on hand but safe on safari activities. This could include your phone, smaller cameras, binoculars, sunscreen, bug spray, and other essentials. Add a small dry bag if you are worried about rain or water-based activities.
9. Blister-proof socks
It's hard to ignore the pain of a bad blister. Whether bush walks factor into your safari activities or not, make sure you have socks that will keep the blisters at bay for every leg of your travels. Our anti-blister socks are also moisture wicking and made from high-performance yarns for comfort.
10. Flashlight
One of the top safari essentials is a compact flashlight. Especially in unfenced camps, the ability to keep an eye on your surroundings is important for safety. While you will probably be escorted between the dining area and your accommodation at night, it is a good idea to have a flashlight ready if you need it. In off-grid camps, this can also be useful to find items in the depths of your bag at night or to light up dark corners.
Other Safari Accessories
While the above items are our top 10 recommended safari accessories, there are a few more to consider:
- Power banks and solar chargers. If you are staying in a remote, unelectrified camp and need to charge your phone or electronics, you might want to take a power bank or solar charger. Some off-grid camps offer central charging facilities, so it is worth finding this out beforehand.
- Camera lenses, stabilizing beanbags, and accessories. If you're excited about taking photos on safari, make sure you have all your camera gear ready.
- Books and apps. If you are the type of safari-goer who is happy to put your sightings in the hands of your guide, this will not apply to you. Many lodges will also have a bird book on the vehicle for you to look at. However, if you would like reference texts and journals, make sure you have these at the ready for your safari.