What to Pack for a Luxury Safari: The Safari Gal Checklist

Packing for a luxury safari is a fine balance between style, practicality, and comfort. You want to be prepared for every experience, whether it’s an early-morning game drive, a sunset cocktail by the river, or a glamorous lodge dinner. If you’re anything like me, you want to look fabulous, feel comfortable, and, most importantly, be safari-ready without overpacking (we all say we won’t, but we always do).

Let’s be real—every woman going on a luxury safari spends hours on Google searching for the perfect ‘safari chic’ look. We all overpack. And deep down, we all want to look like we just stepped off the cover of Getaway Magazine. So let’s make it happen.

Here’s The Safari Gals’ ultimate luxury safari packing list, ensuring you have everything you need for a trip of a lifetime.

1. Safari Chic: What to Wear in the Bush

A luxury safari isn’t a fashion show, but let’s be honest—it kind of is for us. We may be in the middle of the bush, but that doesn't mean we won’t overdress like our lives depend on it. It’s a fun part of our job, and we fully embrace the extra.

Daytime Safari Essentials:

• Lightweight, breathable clothing – Stick to earthy tones (beige, khaki, olive, taupe) to blend into the environment. Avoid white (we ignore this rule because we love a crisp white linen blouse and we live on the edge).

• Linen or cotton button-up shirts – A Safari Gals staple. We pretend it’s for practicality, but really, it’s because it looks effortlessly chic.

• Comfortable safari trousers or shorts – Perfect for long game drives and pretending we’re in a Ralph Lauren ad.

• A lightweight jacket or fleece – Early mornings can be chilly, and for this, we swear by Batela—all our jackets come from them, and we are obsessed.

• Comfortable walking shoes – Sneakers, trainers, or light boots. We love Veldskoen, the perfect blend of comfort and safari style.

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Evening & Lodge Wear:

• Flowy dresses or stylish jumpsuits – We have been known to rock the odd black jumpsuit, as long as the fabric is light (yes, we know it attracts heat, but let us live).

• A stylish wrap or pashmina – Adds instant glamour and doubles as a blanket when it gets chilly.

• Flat sandals or espadrilles – Leave the heels at home. Try Art of Soule Espadrilles.

Swim & Lounge:

• Bikinis & Swimsuits – You’ll want something fabulous for the pool. We love Gabrielle Swim.

• Kimono or stylish cover-up – Because a little drama by the infinity pool never hurt anyone.

• Leggings & Sportswear – Not just for the lodge gym! Lara Fay Activewear and Fit Gymwear are perfect for traveling in—soft, breathable, and stylish enough to go from plane to safari vehicle effortlessly.

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2. Essential Safari Accessories

A safari requires more than just good outfits—accessories can make all the difference.

• Wide-brimmed hat – A MUST for sun protection. Crystal Birch Hats are stylish and functional.

• Polarized Sunglasses – Protect your eyes from glare and dust.

• Scarf or Buff – Keeps the dust off your face and makes you look effortlessly cool. I swear by my scarves from Asatsi, they’re a safari staple.

• Small crossbody or backpack – A stylish, lightweight bag to carry essentials.

• Statement Earrings or Minimalist Jewelry – For lodge dinners, because why not?

3. Skincare & Beauty Must-Haves

Long days in the African sun can be tough on the skin, so your skincare game needs to be on point.

• SPF 50 Sunscreen – Non-negotiable! My go-to sunscreens are iS CLINICAL PerfecTint Powder SPF 40—my friend Lourette DuToit (the ultimate skin guru) introduced me to it, and now I never travel without it, and Sisley SUNLEŸA G.E. SPF 50+, which I am a huge fan of for that extra layer of luxury sun protection.

• Tinted Moisturizer or BB Cream – Keep it light and breathable.

• Lip Balm with SPF – Dry air and sun exposure can take a toll.

• Hydrating Mist – A lifesaver after a long, dusty game drive.

• Minimal Makeup – Keep it simple: mascara, brow gel, and a lip tint.

• Mosquito Repellent – A must-have for those balmy evenings under the African sky. Choose one that is natural and effective!

4. Safari Gadgets & Gear

A few key items will elevate your safari experience.

• Camera & Lenses – Your iPhone won’t do justice to a lion sighting! We shoot on Sony, and our drone is from DJI.

• Binoculars – Essential for spotting leopards lazing in trees.

• Power Bank – Safari days are long, and outlets aren’t always nearby.

• E-Reader or Book – Because sometimes you just want to unplug and read under an acacia tree.

• Travel Adapter & Charging Cables – Most African lodges use UK or South African plug points.

5. Health & Wellness Essentials

Health is wealth, and in the bush, a few proactive choices will make your trip smoother.

• Anti-Malaria Medication (if needed) – Check with your doctor.

• Electrolytes or Hydration Tablets – Safari days can be hot and dehydrating.

• Travel First Aid Kit – Painkillers, antihistamines, motion sickness tablets.

• Tummy Relief – Because new foods are delicious, but surprises aren’t always fun.

• Reusable Water Bottle – Many lodges are eco-conscious and provide refilling stations.

6. Luxury Safari Extras: Because Why Not?

• A Chic Journal – Document your once-in-a-lifetime sightings.

• Luxury Silk Pillowcase – A bit of home comfort in the wild.

• Lodge-Specific Outfits – Because we are who we are, and we love a coordinated wardrobe moment.

• Signature Cocktail Ingredients – Some lodges let you create your own sundowners—why not bring a special ingredient to make it personal?