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"Going on safari" conjures up so many wonderful images—including many that are dashing (Ernest Hemingway in the big-game days), or fashionable (a thousand Ralph Lauren ads), or a mix of both! But though it might seem daunting at first, packing for safari these days need not be complicated. Most of us already have great travel clothes, sports clothes and casual clothes, so it's more about whittling down than stocking up. With the aim of helping you to not overthink it, Indagare founder Melissa Biggs Bradley and members of the team share the ultimate packing list and tips for a trip into the bush—with favorite brands and secret weapons to keep you comfortable, safe and safari-chic at all times.
If we had to give just one piece of advice: Pack light. You can do this because most days are the same: Morning game drive, rest and lunch, afternoon or evening game drive, and dinner, so you don't need a big variety of clothing—and most camps offer daily laundry service, so you can easily rewear items throughout the trip. Rewearing clothes means you can travel much, much lighter than you might at first think.
Safari outfits and khaki colors may seem cliché but they are practical; they don’t show dirt, don’t stand out in the bush and keep you cool and protected from the sun.
One of Melissa's favorite all-around brands for many of the below items is Anatomie. For your staple base layers (pants and shirts), J.Crew, Banana Republic, GAP and Old Navy are also a great place to start.
Early morning and evening game drives can be cool, even in the hotter summer months, so you'll want to layer well. A fleece, a vest, a heavy scarf—basic items that can go on or come off easily—will pay off in keeping you comfortable.
Outdoor adventure lovers might choose zip-off hiking pants, hiking shoes and a breathable shirt as their base look. Fashion lovers might prefer trendy cargo pants, a linen button-down and the latest fashionable sneaker. Sporty types might be in leggings, running shoes and a baseball cap. All approaches work.
On bush walks or walking safaris, it's good to wear neutral and earthy tones (khaki, tan, brown, olive and green) so you don’t scare animals away with bright colors. But on game drives, this matters less. It’s best to avoid white, which looks too bright against the bush, but it's okay to mix in some yellow, blue, pink, etc., if you like. Avoid blue and black in East Africa, as these shades attract tsetse flies, and on walking safaris, when it’s important to blend in. Avoid camouflage clothing, as it's illegal in some countries.
The summer months are September through April; winter is May through August. Prepare for higher temperatures in the summer, but still plan on needing some layers. In the winter, bring a warm hat, gloves and scarf as morning and evening game drives can get very cold. Mosquitos are the worst between December and March.
Load up at your local drugstore before you go. Most safari camps are very remote without easy access to a pharmacy. Pack any medicine you think you might need, which may include: antihistamines, anti-diarrheal medications and Dramamine, cold and flu aids, antibiotics and prescription malaria medicine. Bring an extra pair of glasses, extra contact lens and contact solution.
Contact your Indagare Trip Designer or Indagare, if you are not yet a member, to start planning a safari. Our team can provide expert travel advice and assist with custom itinerary planning, lodge recommendations and more.
Plus: Discover exclusive packing edits for safari, beach and beyond from our partner Mytheresa—so you can arrive prepared and in style. We are also delighted to offer complimentary access to Mytheresa's VIP Personal Shopping Program. Email myindagare@mytheresa.com to get started.
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