Out in the wilderness, and one with nature- an authentic safari is indeed an exotic and rewarding experience. Part of this immersion is getting a taste of African life, and this could be a bit challenging, especially if you’ve been used to the comfort of the western world. There are several safari options in Kenya, which will, of course, allow you to enjoy the comfort of luxury camping. However, it might not have the products you thought were basic and can, therefore, be bought anywhere in the world. You may also find it quite challenging to find the brands that you’re used to.

Here are our top 15 recommendations to tuck in your baggage for your upcoming Kenya safari:

#1 Clothing

The right clothing is crucial to your safari. You must wear comfortable clothes and the ones that match the weather. You should also wear clothes with neutral colors to avoid attracting tsetse flies. Below is a list of clothes you should bring on your trip!

  • T-shirts and tank tops
  • Long-sleeved shirts (for protection from sunburns)
  • Shorts
  • Light long pants or convertible long-short pants
  • Warm fleece pullover or jacket
  • One swimsuit
  • Cotton socks and underwear
  • Pajamas
  • One pair of comfortable walking shoes
  • One pair of sandals or flip-flops
  • Wide-brimmed hat
  • Bandana (for dust)
  • Heavy sweater, gloves, and toque if traveling in the cold season (June – August)

#2 Documents

Don’t forget to pack some important documents for your adventure. It’s important to bring the following documents when visiting a foreign country, in case you need them for requirements or other scenarios.

  • Passport
  • Plane tickets
  • Travel Insurance Policy & Emergency Contact Numbers
  • Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate (if applicable)
  • Safari itinerary

#3 Gadgets

Bringing gadgets like smartphones is a no-brainer on any trip. These gadgets can get handy, as it has everything you need for communication, entertainment, and useful travel apps like maps, weather, etc.

  • Mobile phone
  • Charger

#4 Camera

Cameras are always a staple necessity for trips. Especially if you’re a photographer or you would like to capture the precious moments during your trips, a camera is a must. However, if you’re a casual photographer, it’s better to bring a compact, point-and-shoot camera so that it won’t add to the weight of your baggage.

  • Extra memory card
  • Lenses
  • Camera equipment (gimbal, tripod, batteries, etc.)
  • Drone

#5 Credit cards and ATM bank cards

Always bring your bank cards anywhere you go on Kenyan trip. You can use these cards for smooth transactions in case you don’t want to use cash. However, it’s still suggested that you bring U.S. dollars in large and small denominations ($20, $50 & $100 bills) if ever card transactions are not possible in some business establishments.

#6 Sunglasses

One of the most typically undervalued belonging in your must-pack list is sunglasses. Sunglasses can be of great use, especially during safaris that will protect your eyes from too much light and heat.

#7 Personal toiletries

Toilet papers, shampoo, soaps, toothpaste, and toothbrush; pack your toiletries before going on a Kenyan trip. It’s always better to have your own toiletries, so you won’t have to buy products along the way, especially if you only use specific brands.

#8 Ziplock bags

Ziplock bags can be highly usable during your trip which you can use for toiletries, protecting camera equipment, packing up snacks, and so on.

#9 Insect Repellant

Have you heard of that stereotype about Africa being infested with mosquitoes and all sorts of insects? That might be politically incorrect but we can’t discount the fact that its sort of true especially at night. Risk not and slather your skin with insect repellant to avoid any hassle. Pick natural products such as those made from Citronella- better for your skin, best for nature.

#10 Emergency Medicines

Out in the camp, pharmacy is not one of the common stores you’ll see… or not at all. Your safari operator must have this kit available but it’s best to bring a few of your own tried and tested brand. Don’t forget to include anti-allergy, eye drops, medicines for diarrhea, dizziness, anti-itch, tampons, and some band-aids in your kit too.

#11 Power Bank

Out in the wilderness, most camps follow a certain schedule for when electricity is available. Because of this, your charging time is cut to at least half compared to when you’re in the city. Hence, it’s best to keep a power bank handy especially to charge your phone and camera.

#12 Flash Light

Most camps and lodges in general call for lights off at a certain hour. At this time, unless a bonfire is available, the stars will be your only source of light. If you fancy strolling out in the middle of the night to get some cool, then this is your best friend.

#13 Sunblock

You may not be there to go swimming but you won’t be hanging out inside your room either. During game viewing, you will be in a vehicle with a pop-up roof but at most times, you would have to stick your head out there to see the animals hence, expose your skin to harmful UV rays; more so in the case of walking safaris among other outdoor activities.

#14 Adapter

Before you set off, make sure to check the socket they use in the country where you’re headed.  This because we all need to charge and use our phones, camera, and laptop. And because electricity is useless if we cannot connect to the socket without the right adapter.

#15 Hand Sanitizer

Like your mom used to always say: Wash your hands before eating. Indeed,

keeping your hands clean before touching your food will do you good. In a foreign country like Africa, this habit would do you wonder especially because some very local places don’t have sink and water available to tidy up your hands.

Lastly, remember to pack light!