Okay, so a safari packing list. Seriously, where do you even start? I’m sitting here in my apartment in, like, the most un-safari place ever (think traffic and sirens, not lions), trying to mentally prepare for this trip, and my brain is just a jumbled mess of “do I need 10 pairs of socks?” and “will I look ridiculous in a pith helmet?”. My cat, Mittens, is currently batting at a half-packed suitcase, which, you know, feels about right for my level of preparedness.
The Clothes Thing: Comfort Over Chic (Trust Me on This)
Everyone tells you to pack light layers and neutral colors. Yadda yadda. And yeah, okay, that makes sense. But let me tell you about my last attempt at “sensible travel attire.” I ended up looking like I raided an Indiana Jones costume sale. Seriously. Khaki overload. This time? I’m aiming for comfort. Like, ridiculously comfy. Think those slightly embarrassing zip-off pants my dad loves? Yeah, maybe those. Don’t judge.
Because let’s be real, when you’re bouncing around in a jeep, trying to spot a rhino, the last thing you’re gonna care about is whether your outfit is Instagram-perfect.
And shoes! Oh man, the shoes. They say sturdy walking shoes. I bought these fancy hiking boots that looked great in the store, but I’m pretty sure they’re plotting to give me blisters the second I step off the plane. I’ve been trying to break them in by wearing them around my apartment, which mostly just results in Mittens giving me these deeply unimpressed stares. Anyway, multiple pairs of socks are a must. My feet sweat. A lot. It’s a thing.
Gadgets and Gizmos (and My Phone Addiction)
So, obviously, a camera is key. I’ve got my trusty old DSLR, which I’m still trying to figure out how to properly use. And then there’s my phone. I know, I know, “disconnect and enjoy the moment.” But let’s be real, my phone is basically an extension of my hand. Plus, how else am I gonna document this whole crazy adventure for my (probably very bored) friends back home?
I’m also bringing a portable charger because the thought of my battery dying in the middle of nowhere gives me actual anxiety. Maybe a good old-fashioned journal too? For when the Wi-Fi inevitably cuts out. We’ll see how long that lasts.
The Unexpected Essentials (According to Me)
Here’s where my safari packing list deviates a bit. Sunscreen? Duh, obviously. Bug spray? Double duh. But what about that one comfort item that just makes you feel a little more human when you’re far from home? For me, it’s a ridiculously soft travel pillow. It’s probably way too big and takes up half my carry-on, but I don’t care. Airplane naps are serious business. Oh, and a good book. Like, a really thick one. Because you know there will be downtime, and staring at the savanna for hours can only entertain me for so long. Maybe I should finally tackle “War and Peace”? Probably not.
And snacks! Don’t even get me started on snacks. I’m packing enough trail mix and granola bars to survive a small apocalypse. You never know when hunger might strike, especially when you’re miles away from the nearest convenience store. Plus, airplane food? Hard pass. Seriously.
My Safari Packing List: The (Likely Incomplete) Rundown
Okay, so to actually make this look like a proper blog post and not just my internal monologue:
- Comfy, broken-in shoes (and lots of socks!)
- Light layers in neutral-ish colors (with a few non-khaki options thrown in for rebellion)
- A good camera (and maybe I’ll actually read the manual this time)
- My phone (don’t judge) and a portable charger
- Sunscreen and bug spray (the strong stuff!)
- My oversized travel pillow (my neck will thank me)
- A ridiculously long book (or maybe just a few trashy magazines, let’s be honest)
- An embarrassing amount of snacks
- Basic first-aid stuff (band-aids are always a good idea)
- My passport (pretty crucial, I hear)
Wrapping Up This Packing Palooza
So yeah, that’s my current take on what you really need for a safari packing list. It’s probably not the most expert advice you’ll find out there, but hey, it’s honest. It’s my slightly chaotic, very American perspective on prepping for an adventure. Wish me luck that I don’t forget anything truly essential, like, you know, pants.
If you’ve been on a safari, what’s one thing you wish you’d packed (or left at home)? Let me know in the comments – I clearly need all the help I can get!
