Whether you’re going for a week, a month, or longer, visiting South Africa is likely to be a unique experience. You want that experience to be a good one, though, which means ensuring you pack just right to make the most of your trip. Use this quick guide to help you have the time of your life.
Legal Documents
Even before you pack your clothes, ensure your legal documents are in order to prevent unwanted surprises. First, check your passport to make sure it is valid and will be for at least six months past your date of entry. Keep a copy of your passport separate and leave it with a trusted person at home in case of an emergency. You’ll also want the contact details of your accommodations, proof of travel insurance, airline information, copies of your immunizations and their expiration dates, and credit cards and cash. Store it all in the inner pocket of your bag and ensure you have copies or digital backups of everything.
Clothing
Next, pack your clothes. The clothing you need depends on what you’ll be doing during your trip. If your tour in South Africa involves a safari, focus on neutral-colored clothes, as bright colors make you a target for animals and dark ones make you a target for insects. Dress in layers since it’s cooler in the early morning and late evening hours, and always have long sleeves and pants if you expect mosquitoes to be present. If you intend to have dinner in a city such as Cape Town, you’ll also need a nice dinner outfit. Don’t forget swimsuits, underwear and socks, spare shoes, and something to sleep in.
Technology
Maybe your trip is work-related or maybe it’s a personal vacation. Regardless of why you’re visiting South Africa, you’ll want some of your electronics with you. If you’ll be working, remember your laptop and its charger (as well as an extra one), not to mention an external hard drive and keyword. You’ll also want your mobile phone and several extra chargers for it (you’ll use it as an alarm as well) and a camera with extra batteries and memory cards. Finally, don’t forget headphones. Even if you don’t use them much on the trip itself, they’ll come in handy on the plane.
When packing for your visit to South Africa, it is important not to overpack or underpack. Always use luggage tags and weather-resistant luggage for the best chances of ensuring your belongings remain safe.
