Essential Safari Gear & Accessories - World Holiday Vibes Blog

“The right gear does not make the adventure. It simply helps you stay present when the wild begins to tell its story”

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Welcome to the part of your safari journey that begins before you hear the first lion’s roar.

A safari is not an ordinary holiday. In one moment you can travel across a dusty track with a herd of elephants; in the next you might be following fresh tracks in the bush or sitting quietly beside a waterhole watching the African sun turn the landscape gold. It’s an experience you will never forget, but it can be an even better one with the right gear.

The trick is not to cram all your belongings into your suitcases. Good safari gear should be practical, comfortable and be easily carried. Each selected item has a purpose, from binoculars that enable you to see a leopard in the distance clearly to a reusable water bottle that helps hydrate you in the African sun.

This guide covers the safari essentials that you won’t find in any checklist, such as the things that will make your trip safer, accessories that you need, camera equipment and what clothes you should have with you and what little things you might not have thought of yet when you were planning the trip.

Why the Right Safari Gear Matters

Imagine this, It’s just after dawn. There is a cold breeze in the air, quiet road and your safari vehicle comes to a stop by a patch of golden grass. Your guide is looking out toward the horizon.

“There.”

You look and at first, you see nothing.

You raise your binoculars and there it is, sitting under a tree, there’s a lion.

This little incident is the reason why it is important to select the right safari gear.

The African bush is full of surprises. Mornings can be quite chilly and afternoons can be quite hot. Dust can get into practically anything and some wildlife spotting occurs a long way from home. This can involve travelling for several hours in a vehicle, walking through bush or travelling between remote camps.

The top gear isn’t always the most expensive gear, therefore. It’s the gear that operates silently in the background so you can focus on the scenery, wildlife and people all around you.

For your first safari, you can also learn more about what to expect before you travel with our First Time Safari Guide.

1. Binoculars — Your Window to the Wild

One other item that I would suggest that goes beyond the obvious is a good pair of binoculars.

With a camera, you can keep a memory, but binoculars can help make it seem more intimate during its actual occurrence.

A pair around 8×42 or 10×42 is a popular choice for safaris due to the increased level of magnification, brightness and ease of use. There is no need to use professional equipment for rewarding views of wild animals.

When picking out binoculars, search for those that are:

Easy to carry for the length of the day.
Comfortable to hold
Bright clear in low light conditions
Easy to concentrate rapidly
Water-resistant where possible

Binoculars are especially helpful for observing birds, far-off antelope, monkeys and predators perched in the tall grass.

Then there’s one more thing; they get you to observe instead of getting in the habit of being constantly on your phone.

At times the best safari memory is just a memory that was witnessed.

2. Camera and Extra Memory Cards

Safari and photography go hand-in-hand.

The trouble is, however, that wildlife does not wait for a perfect photograph. A giraffe can disappear behind a tree, an elephant start walking towards the water, or a bird can take flight just as you lift your camera.

That is why camera equipment is one of the most useful pieces of safari gear that can come in very handy.

If photography is important to you, consider bringing:

Camera with adequate telephoto lens
At least one spare battery
Several memory cards
Please bring a protective camera bag.
A lens-cleaning cloth
A small dust blower
A lightweight camera strap

Having a longer lens can also be of great benefit, as they allow the images to be captured of the animals without coming close to them. Your guide will make sure that you are always at a safe and respectful distance.

Planning to invest in a camera specifically for your trip? Our guide to the Best Camera for Safari can help you choose an option that suits your photography style and budget.

Keep your camera ready!

One common mistake is to leave your camera in the box because you’re hoping for a ‘big’ sighting.

Keep it accessible.

It is sometimes the little things that make for some of the most beautiful moments: a baby elephant clinging to its mother, a bird in the morning light, a zebra in the mist.

However, Safari photography are not just about dramatic encounters with animals. It’s all about paying attention to things.

3. Power Bank and Charging Equipment

Frustrating to have a dead phone or camera battery at the wrong time.

Some safari camps are situated remotely and may offer a limited electricity or restricted charging times or a common charging station. Some camps have solar power generation and some camps have power supply during hours.

One of the most useful safari items to bring is therefore a good power bank.

Select a model that can accommodate your devices and if possible, have multiple charging ports.

Also consider taking:

Your phone charger
Camera battery charger
Spare camera batteries
Appropriate travel adapters
Multipurpose charger with compact design

Store charging equipment in a small charging pouch. Helps save time and prevent cables from tangling up your luggage.

4. Reusable Water Bottle

It can be hot and dry in Africa but staying hydrated is key.

A reusable water bottle is a straightforward gadget that can easily quickly become one of your favourite pieces of safari gear.

Select a heavy-duty, refillable, easily transportable bottle. If you’re on a long road trip, an insulated bottle is a great asset to have on board to help keep your water cold.

Many safari camps and operators provide drinking water, but it is useful to carry your own reusable bottle.

A bottle with a tight-fitting lid is also a good option when riding on rough tracks.

5. Comfortable Daypack

It’s not a necessity to have a large pack for each game drive.

Most of the items you want on hand will fit into a small, comfortable daypack.

It’s like your own safari drawer, without the drawer.

Use it for:

Water
Sunglasses
Sun cream
Binoculars
Camera accessories
A light jacket
Insect repellent
Tissues
Personal essentials

Opt for light weight with comfortable straps. Neutral hues can also help it seamlessly fit in with the safari theme.

Avoid overloading it. A heavy bag is not fun to carry between vehicles, camps and walking.

6. Sun Protection

The sun is beautiful, but it expects respect in Africa.

Items that should form part of your everyday safari must-haves include a wide-brimmed hat or cap, sun cream (with a high sun protection factor) and sunglasses.

Polarised sunglasses can be particularly helpful as they filter out glare and will make it easier to look across bright landscapes and water.

A lightweight, long sleeve shirt offers some protection and can help cool down mornings if it is cooler.

Don’t forget to use sun cream on areas like the back of your neck, ears or hands.

The message is easy to catch: Stay safe in the sun and have fun without getting a sunburn on your safari.

7. Insect Repellent

A safari is a trip into nature where insects are an integral part.

A quality insect repellent should be added to your list of safari must-haves for this reason, especially if you’re staying near a river, wetland or woodland area.

Use as directed on the label; Mosquito activity can increase around dawn and dusk, so use repellent as directed.

You might also be provided with mosquito nets or other protection if necessary in your accommodation, but it is good to carry your own mosquito repellent.

If you are travelling to more than one country, it is important to double-check the health information provided before leaving each country.

8. Lightweight Layers for Changing Temperatures

One of my favourite safari tips is to dress for the morning, rather than the afternoon.

Even in a warm location, early game drives can be quite cool. Temperatures can change quickly after sunrise before the temperature changes.

Instead of wearing one heavy coat, wear layers.

This combination can be made practical by:

A light fleece or jumper
Long-sleeved shirt
Breathable T-shirt
Lightweight trousers
Comfortable walking shoes
Light waterproof layer

Layers enable you to change quickly with temperature.

Neutral colours such as khaki, beige, olive and brown are often recommended for safari clothing. Most importantly, wear something that will feel comfortable and will let you move around easily.

Check out our African Safari Packing List for more clothing suggestions.

9. Comfortable Walking Shoes

Even if most of your wildlife viewing takes place from a vehicle, there may be opportunities for guided walks, camp activities or exploring around your accommodation.

C Works with uneven terrainomfortable footwear is thus one of the best safari must-haves.

On most safaris a good pair of walking shoes or light boots will suffice. For those who are planning a separate “walking safari” there are several factors to consider when selecting footwear, including the type of terrain and advice from the operator.

Your shoes should be:

Comfortable for long periods
Already broken in
Suitable for uneven terrain
Easy to clean
Supportive around the feet

Don’t bring brand new shoes to a safari. Blisters like to “show up” at the wrong time.

10. Dry Bag or Waterproof Pouches

When packing at home, you might not be tempted to pack a small dry bag.

But it can prove to be extremely handy on safari.

Phones, passports, cameras and other valuables can be kept safe from a sudden rain, splashes and dust in a waterproof pouch or dry bag.

It can be very helpful if you are planning to go on boat safaris, mokoro trips or to traverse areas of wetlands.

For most travellers, a small waterproof pouch or dry bag is sufficient for protecting essential items.

11. Head Torch or Small Torch

There are some safari camps that are wonderfully remote and that is what makes them special.

Some light may be provided between communal space and housing at night. Smaller torches and head torches are great for navigating around.

A head torch is particularly useful as it allows you to keep both hands free.

Select one that is light and place it in a convenient location in your suitcase, not the bottom.

It’s a small object that can pack a big punch after dark.

12. Universal Travel Adapter

Various African nations have different plug types, so verify the electrical system for each travel destination.

When travelling to multiple countries, a universal travel adapter may be the easiest option.

Find one that is compatible and provides protection that suits the devices. A small, multi-port USB charger can further minimize the number of adapters and cables needed if you have multiple devices.

While this may seem unadventurous, it will be very useful when you need to power up your camera and phone after a long day in the wild.

13. Small First-Aid Kit

For minor everyday issues a small personal first aid kit may be helpful.

Consider adding the following simple components:

Plasters
Antiseptic wipes
Blister protection
Any regular medicines that are required.
Basic pain relief
Personal hygiene items

A travel kit is not a substitute for the advice of a health care professional. Do check the health requirements and recommended precautions for your destination prior to travelling.

If you are on a medication, be sure to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and bring enough for your trip and keep it in its original container.

14. Dust Protection for Your Devices

safari roads are often dusty, especially during the dry season.

Extra protection is appreciated for your camera, phone and other electronics.

It is important to minimize dust exposure when travelling on open vehicles, a simple camera cover, protective pouch or zipped bag can help with this.

Take a microfibre cloth to gently clean lenses and screens. Do not aggressively wipe down dusty surfaces since small particles may scratch surfaces.

For photographers, the best way to protect their gear until they need it is better than having to clean everything after every drive.

15. Travel documents and copies.

Don’t forget the most important things among all the exciting equipment.

Be sure to have your passport and Foreign travel insurance – GOV.UK, booking details, emergency contacts and any necessary travel documents in a safe and easy to find place.

Make sure to store important papers digitally and in a safe place if applicable.

Your safari operator / destination authorities may have their own particular requirements so please confirm the latest official travel guidance prior to travel.

It is possible to keep everything organized with a simple document organiser, and make the airport transfer and check-in even easier.

Choosing the Best Safari Accessories for Your Trip

There is no single packing list that is 100% suitable for all safaris.

A luxury lodge holiday in Botswana can be different to a walking safari in Zambia in terms of the necessary equipment. Depending on the type of family safari or a dedicated camera trip, other items may be required.

When you’re considering a purchase, ask yourself the following three questions:

Will I use it every day?

Will it help to make me feel better or safer?

Does it fit in my suitcase and should it be in my suitcase?

If you answered no to the three questions, then leave it at home.

The finest safari equipment is not the stuff which fills your suitcase! It’s the equipment that works around a problem that actually exists, rather than create it.

Things you Probably Do Not Need

It can be easy to go overboard with safari shopping.

There are many gadgets that will make your adventure easier, but you don’t need to transform your bags into a mobile equipment store.

Typically, you may pass on:

Excessive clothing
Avoid heavy hiking equipment unless you are required to use it on your itinerary.
Large hair styling tools
Too many shoes
Bulky camera accessories you will not use
Unnecessary electronic gadgets

Space is precious, especially when flying between camps with a small aircraft where space for luggage might be restricted.

Be sure to pack efficiently and refer to the rules governing bags on the flights and safari operator for your trip.

The Best Safari Gear Checklist

Before you get ready to leave home, check this quick list:

For wildlife viewing

Binoculars
Camera and appropriate lens
Spare batteries
Memory cards

For comfort

Reusable water bottle
Daypack
Hat
Sunglasses
Sun cream
Insect repellent
Lightweight layers

For technology

Phone charger
Camera charger
Power bank
Travel adapter
Protective pouches

For practical needs

Comfortable walking shoes
Small first-aid kit
Torch or head torch
Travel documents
Waterproof pouch

These are just some of the simple best safari accessories that can help to make a day out at the safari more comfortable without burdening your bag with extra weight.

Smart Packing Makes More Room for the Wild

One of these adventures is a safari and when you do not have to think about your belongings so much you see more of what is going on around you.

You don’t want to be worrying about where you put your extra batteries while worrying about the lion moving through the grass.

You don’t want to wake up at sunrise to hear the sounds of the bush, and spend 10 minutes looking through your overpacked suitcase for your sunglasses.

So it is important to plan well.

Your safari kit should enhance the safari and not take over. Use practical equipment; pack light, if possible, and arrange equipment to be easily accessible.

For those who are still thinking about taking the trip, there is much more to be inspired by in our Ultimate African Safari Holidays Guide on destinations, wildlife experiences and safari planning.

Final Thoughts

The simplicity of safari is such a wonderful thing.

A road leads out of the city into a desert. The birds are calling from somewhere beyond the trees. Dust gets stirred up behind the car. Suddenly, the landscape shifts, now that a wild animal has appeared before you.

It’s at these moments you’re travelling to.

Whether it’s binoculars to bring the distant animal closer or a camera in case of an unexpected sighting, or a lightweight jacket to keep you warm on an early morning drive, the right safari essentials can make those moments easier to enjoy while soaking in those world holiday vibes.

Don’t need all the gadgets. All you need are the items that make you comfortable, prepared and ready to experience the wild.

So dear travellers, pack with purpose, leave a little space in your bag and more space in your mind.

The most important thing you’ll bring back from Africa will never fit in your suitcase.

It will be the memory of where you were, what you saw and how the wild made you feel.

FAQ

What binoculars should I bring?

For clear, easy viewing, select either 8×42 or 10×42.

What colour do I need to wear?

Stick to neutral colors such as khaki, beige, olive or brown.

Do I need a power bank?

Yes, as some camps have restrictions on electricity or charging time.

Should I use a new pair of walking shoes?

No, don’t break them in before use as it can cause blisters.

Can I bring a large suitcase?

No, it’s important to pack light as small bush flights have luggage restrictions.

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