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Packing for a safari can be tricky. Less is more, and you need to be strategic. But also remember that when you’re on safari, you can’t just go to a store if you forget something. So use this guide as a checklist when packing your safari clothing and gear.

My best advice for safari clothes is to choose comfort over everything else! Stick with neutral colors and avoid black because it’ll attract flies and make you very visible to wildlife. If you’re on a walking or riding safari, avoid white clothes because they’ll get VERY dirty VERY quickly and make you stand out for wildlife.

Know Before You Go: If you are taking a bush flight to your safari lodge, there will be strict limitations on the size and type of bag you can bring, so double-check these requirements.

Here are the best safari clothing and gear!

Clothes

You’ll want layers in the mornings and evenings that you can take off when it gets warmer in the afternoons.

2-3 Cargo Pants

2-3 Layering T-Shirts

1-2 Long Sleeve Shirts

Cargo Jacket

Vest

1-2 Pairs of Shorts

Fleece Jacket

Lounge Pants

Maxi Dress

Cardigan

Romper, Midi, or Tunic Dress. These are great for looking nicer in the evenings or layering with a cargo jacket and boots for game drives.

Windbreaker

Sun hat with neck strap

Scarf to protect your neck from the sun, cover your face when it’s dusty, and cushion your neck from a camera strap.

Sunglasses

Sports Bras. Bring the most supportive sports bras you own. Game drives are VERY bumpy, so you want to bring bras that will give you the comfort and support you’ll need.

Binoculars – most lodges don’t have enough for every guest.

Socks & Underwear. Bring more than you think you’ll need. You’ll want to constantly change your socks and undies to feel fresh and clean. Most lodges have laundry services, but they usually won’t wash underwear.

Beanie

Gloves

Swimwear

One-piece swimsuit. I’m obsessed with this one-piece because it’s SO flattering on my stomach and waist!

Long maxi cover-up. I wear this over swimsuits and as a dress on its own!

Vintage-looking suit. I’m a sucker for a retro-looking suit, especially if it has a unique back or cutout.

Kimono. I have this kimono in several colors because I love the style and fit!

Shoes

Boots. Choose high-ankle boots that are easy to wipe down at the end of each day.

Nice Tennis Shoes. Meals are usually served in an open-air dining area, so these tennis shoes will keep your feet warm while still pairing with nicer evening clothes.

Water shoes. You’ll want a pair of easy slip-on shoes to wear to and from the pool.

Camera Gear

DSLR Camera. While your phone is the most convenient and lightweight camera option, you’ll want a more powerful camera with a zoom lens and built-in stabilizer for a safari.

Zoom Lens. Trust me, you want a high-quality zoom lens for your safari!

GoPro. A GoPro is the best way to get action shots and videos.

Selfie Stick & Tripod. You’ll want to take selfies on game drives, bush walks, and lounging around the lodge.

Skincare

Sunscreen. Protect your skin!

SPF foundation. Add some extra sun protection to your daily makeup routine.

Makeup setting spray. To keep your makeup from melting off in the heat!

Other Gear

Soft-Sided Duffel Bag. This is the largest size bag I was allowed to bring on one of my bush flights.

Camera Backpack. This can be your personal item on the plane and keep your camera gear protected and organized.

Reusable Water Bottle. Please bring a reusable water bottle with you!

What would you add to this list of safari clothing and gear? Share with us in the comments!

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