Men or women, here’s how to simplify prepare for your Africa Safari and avoid the panic: Whether it’s an adventure getaway, or you’re just too crazed to even think about getting your suitcase together before departure date, don’t worry. learning to pack quickly and efficiently, Last June, I found out that I had to fly to Europe on a last-minute business trip, the day of departure. My flights were booked for that afternoon, so I dashed around my apartment in a frenzy throwing everything (and I mean everything) into my suitcase. I left in a cluttered mess, and of course, forgot a few vital items. That experience taught me a lesson and helped me to get a sense of what I should have done to prepare myself for takeoff.
Follow these seven tips and you’ll be able to pack for your Africa Safari in twenty minutes or less.
- Size Matters—Choose destination appropriate luggage. If you’re hopping to the next state, you don’t need to haul an extra-large travel bag. And similarly, if you’re heading overseas, you’ll want more than a tiny daypack. For versatility, select a medium sized piece of luggage that converts from a wheeling suitcase to a backpack. The Eagle Creek Switchback Max 22 does just that. At 65 liters, it’s just the right size lightweight and durable, you can hoist it on your shoulder for a backpack, or convert by pulling up the handle for a grab and go roller bag. It’s small enough for an airplane carry on, but big enough to hold enough outfits, shoes and toiletries for several days away.
- Keep Regulation -Size Bottles on Hand—Avoid struggling last minute to find minor toiletries at the drugstore, chances are, they don’t have your favorite products anyway. Instead, use airline approved ounce travel bottles like the kind that come in the Pack It Custom Travel-Bottle Set. Not only is it eco-friendlier to refill, but you can fill them with your favorite shampoo, conditioner and body wash. Combine this with other essentials like a toothbrush, toothpaste, razor and leave them under your bathroom sink. When it’s time to pack in a rush, grab the already prepped bag and toss it into your suitcase.
- Invest in a Multi Season- Jacket: Keep a staple zip-up sweatshirt or fleece outer layer in your closet. I like Smart-wool hoodies, made from traceable Merino wool (I’ve had the same one for three years, and it is still in excellent shape). With a high thread count, you can wear it in chillier temps, it’s heavier than a base layer but it’s still breathable, releasing heat when you don’t need it. A solid piece like this will give you guaranteed warmth, and you won’t have to take up precious suitcase space by packing more than one.
- Sluggish Down: After years of chronically over packing and only wearing-half of what I bring, I’ve now dedicated at least minute or two thinking twice to consider the climate I’m in, destination visiting and what type of events I’ll be attending. Then, I pack for only those and never double up on pieces. If you like to run or walk, you really only need one set of workout clothes. If you’re on a beach, one swimsuit should do the trick hang-both to dry out at night.
- Bring Clothes that do Double Duty For women, a well cut dark coloured dress can always transition from work to a night out, dramatic earrings or a statement belt change the look. Guys should invest in a pair of trendies, comfortable sneakers that can work just as well in the hotel gym as they do for a walking tour or pub hopping.
- Know When to Roll ‘Em Some stuff, like tees, workout gear, boxers and socks can be rolled and organized inside packing cubes. Suits and sweaters, however, should be folded and put in a Pack It Folder to keep them from bunching, wrinkling or getting stretched out of shape.
- Don’t Forget the Essentials—You can do without a third pair of jeans, but not without your eyesight. Don’t forget to toss in extra contacts and glasses you never know when you might need them. Same goes for prescription medication and your cell phone charger. And most important, don’t forget your passport for international flights (including yellow fever card for some countries) So many times, I’ve already started my car to head to the airport and I’ll remember my passport is still up in my dresser drawer. You don’t want to miss your Safari because you don’t have the right paperwork or find yourself without a critical item after you’re already on the road.
To stay strategic, create a checklist of important items and keep it handy when you’re packing; storing it with your luggage or with your travel ready toiletry kit in between trips. Set? to, Go!
About Inquisitive Africa
Our full-service company is specialized in delivering Personalized high-end experience in the region, our unique products and outstanding services offer Safaris that make a lasting impression ever. Our lodging & Camps are positioned within the iconic natural habitats in Africa to give you a complete and authentic safari experience Africa has to offer.