From Cityscapes to Safaris: Packing Tips for African Multi-Destination Travel

Once you begin planning that long-awaited bucket-list holiday to Africa, it’s highly probable that your travel plans will include more than one single country. Embarking on a multi-destination holiday in Africa is an exhilarating journey that promises diverse landscapes, cultures, and experiences. However, the key to enjoying such an adventure to the fullest lies in efficient and strategic packing. With a little planning and a dash of creativity, you can ensure that you have everything you need without weighing yourself down.

• If you are travelling on small ‘Bush planes’ use a soft-sided duffel-style bag. A multi-destination itinerary may make it more complicated to store larger luggage, but please discuss this option with your Travel Manager. View our Luggage Guide for Small Planes here »
• Wheeled Duffel bags are great if you’re going to be moving around a lot and want the convenience of wheels. It combines the portability of a backpack with the ease of rolling luggage. Choose one with sturdy wheels and reinforced handles.
• The hard-shell wheeled suitcase is perfect for long-haul international flights and moving around a lot. These will not be allowed on small safari planes.

• Choose Versatile and Comfortable Clothing:
  Pack clothing items in neutral and complementary colours that can easily be mixed and matched. Prioritize comfortable fabrics and versatile pieces like lightweight jackets, scarves, and cardigans for layering.
• Shoe Selection:
  Stick to a maximum of three pairs of shoes: one for walking and sightseeing, one for poolside relaxation, and one for dressing up. This minimizes the footwear clutter and ensures you have the right shoes for various occasions.
• Comfort and Confidence:
  Pack items that you know you’ll enjoy wearing and feel comfortable in. Try and avoid bringing new or untested clothing that might cause discomfort during your trip.
• Accessories Transform Outfits:
  Don’t forget to pack a few statement accessories. A scarf, statement necklace, or hat can effortlessly transform a basic outfit into a stylish ensemble.
• Destination-Specific Packing:
  If your multi-destination holiday includes a variety of settings – say, from the bustling cityscape of Cape Town to the wild savannah of a safari – consider packing separate sections for each destination. This organization ensures that you’re prepared for the unique demands of each place.

• Pack light:
  If you are travelling to multiple destinations in Africa there is a very high chance you will be taking small planes which means restrictions on how much your luggage can weigh. Most lodges have laundry.
• Pack outfits:
  Instead of throwing random clothing items into your suitcase, plan your outfits in advance. Choose versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched to create different looks. This approach not only saves space but also ensures you’re prepared for various activities and weather conditions.
• Pack your outfits in layers:
  In general, the weather can be warm in the day, but cold in the morning and evening. Plan your outfits in layers so that you can peel things off as the day warms up and have a pair of shorts & sandals to change into. At the end of the day, just reverse the process, adding the layers back on.
• Roll, Don’t Fold:
  Rolling your clothes instead of folding them not only minimizes wrinkles but also maximizes space. This technique is especially useful for lightweight clothing items like t-shirts, dresses, and pants.
• Packing Cubes for Organization:
  Packing cubes are your best friends when it comes to keeping your suitcase organized. Use separate cubes for different destinations, and include one for toiletries. This way, you’ll only need to unpack what you need for the day, keeping the rest neatly organized.
• Undergarments Organizer:
  Dedicate a separate section or organizer for underwear and socks. This not only keeps them organized but also makes it easier to find what you need without rummaging through your entire suitcase.PS, certain lodges do not offer laundry service on delicate items such as undergarments, check with your Travel Manager.

Planning and packing for a multi-destination holiday in Africa doesn’t have to be daunting. By following these tips and tricks, you’ll master the art of packing efficiently, ensuring you have everything you need for each leg of your adventure. Remember, thoughtful preparation allows you to focus on soaking in the beauty, culture, and excitement of each unique destination. So, roll up those clothes, pick the perfect outfits, and embark on your African journey with confidence and style!