What Should I Pack for My Trip to Africa?

Selati line running through Kruger National Park

Within this Blog:

• Vaccination Recommendations

• Malaria Prevention

• Packing List

• First Aid Kit Items

What worries you the most before your journey to Africa?

1. The food

2. The bugs

3. Water quality

4. The possibility of getting sick

5. Your sleeping arrangements

 You Are Finally Going! What Do I Bring?

You are embarking on that long-awaited, oh-so-meticulously-planned-for trip to Africa.  This vast continent has myriads of activities to offer, from thrilling safaris to exploring awe-inspiring natural wonders. Maybe this is a much-anticipated mission trip.  Africa offers exploring the historical pyramids in Egypt in the north down to the beaches of the Cape of Good Hope in South Africa at the southernmost tip. 

How can you pack for so many diverse experiences, without a bag larger than you?  With climates shifting dramatically from the north to the south, preparation will be key.  Let's create a packing list and prepare our bags together.  I’ll provide you with an easy checklist to help you handle any potential emergencies that might arise.  With all in order, you can focus on exploring this vibrant content without feeling overwhelmed.

Vaccinations and Malaria Prevention

The first essential items worth discussing doesn't go in your bags and are extremely portable.  They ride along just in your bloodstream, perfect carry-on! Your best friends, antibodies.  Hands down, the most essential item when traveling to Africa, and vital for a successful trip.

Along those lines Malaria prevention medication is non-negotiable.  A visit to the travel clinic offers a convenient one-stop shop for counseling and vaccine administration.  They can also provide you with antibiotics for traveler's diarrhea and if you ask, they often prescribe antiemetics. Trust me, it's worth asking! If you happen to fall ill, having these prescriptions could save you from a visit to a local clinic. Additionally, they will provide you with a yellow International Vaccination Booklet, which is required for entry into some West African countries as proof of yellow fever vaccination.

When you're traveling, making new friends is part of the adventure, but mosquitoes definitely shouldn't be on that list! To steer clear of these local nuisances, insect repellents are your best allies. Check out my article on the MedReport Foundation for tips on choosing the right repellent to keep those pesky bugs at bay. . 

Mosquito tent and essential documentation

The Sans Bug tent has transformed my travel experiences. During a three-month stay in West Africa, I almost became a surrogate host to a fly, spider, or some other crawling creature. It laid an egg sac in my left leg, and within a week, the swelling in my knee made it impossible to walk. My travel companion, who is also a nurse, and I had to perform a minor procedure, which we dubbed an "egg-sac ectomy." While I have many cherished memories, this is one I would prefer to forget. The tent provides a completely enclosed space with a solid canvas bottom and fine mosquito netting on top, ensuring a worry-free night's sleep. Additionally, it conveniently folds into a lightweight disc that easily fits in my bag.

Essential Components of a First Aid Kit

A first aid kit is a must.  A basic kit includes antiseptic wipes, gauze, adhesive tape, and tweezers.  I know, I frequently mention traveler's diarrhea ad nauseum (pun intended)- but traveling to developing countries opens you up to so many opportunities for it. For that ever-looming threat, bring loperamide and electrolytes.  Ginger supplements can be also provide relief.  Be sure to check out my blog on foodborne illnesses for tips on how to avoid these issues altogether.   And don't forget your prescription medications and OTC pain relievers. 

You will thank yourself later if you pack some anti-itch cream for the bug bites you do get despite your best efforts.  I tuck in a bottle of sun block with zinc because the zinc adds an additional physical barrier to skin protection. If you have space in your bag add aloe vera for any spots you may have missed with the sunblock. 

Essential African Attire

Now, let's discuss what to wear.  The most crucial element is the climate you'll be visiting. Yes, Africa is known for its heat, but let's consider the specific environment you will be visiting.  Will it be the arid deserts of Morocco?  Or venturing into the lush humid climate of Benin?  Or perhaps exploring the mountains of Cameroon, where daytime temperatures can be sweltering and humid, but nights can be drastically cooler.

A hat-  The sun in Africa can be relentless and unforgiving, especially the closer you are to the equator and if at high altitudes.  Wide brim hats serve a dual purpose of giving you shade and keeping you cool.

Coverage- While it might seem that shorts and a tank top are perfect for a sunny destination, long sleeves and long pants are actually better for protection against the sun and insects. Additionally, if you're walking through areas with plants that may brush against your skin, wearing long clothing can protect you from potential contact dermatitis caused by poisonous plants or those to which you might be sensitive.

Moisture wicking or Quick Dry clothing-These help you stay comfortable by drawing sweat away from your body.  They can help prevent issues like rashes or fungal infections that can occur when wearing wet clothes for too long.   Plus, they are also easily laundered on the go.     

 Layers- This is a crucial element when dealing with shifting temperatures, especially in high altitudes where the weather is able to change quite rapidly.  Start with a moisture wicking layer against your skin, and then an insulating layer for warmth, and then top it off with waterproof, wind proof outer layer.

Flip flops- Travel presents many opportunities for unpredictable bathing situations.  Flip-flops shield your feet from potentially unsanitary surfaces

Comfortable shoes-  Many areas in Africa have unpaved paths, so you can expect to walk on uneven, dusty ground quite often..

 Adapter plugs- South Africa is unique and has its own adapter plug (along with some neighboring countries.  Most of West Africa goes with the European adapter, and English speaking countries like Nigeria, Kenya, and Ghana British adapted.

Solar-Powered Power Bank- You can never be sure when you might run out of power, but the sun is always there to back you up. Amazon offers some excellent portable options that are both reliable and budget-friendly.

Water Filter: If your plans include staying at resorts in South Africa, a water filter might not be necessary. However, if you’re venturing into more remote areas, a backpacker’s water filter is definitely worth considering. I’ve used the MSR model during my travels in Africa, and it kept me hydrated and safe from waterborne diseases.

Norwex- Microfiber wash cloths and towels- These might seem superfluous- but they trust me, they have proved invaluable to me.  If you’re staying with locals or even at smaller hotels, you may not find towel and washcloth situations to be what you’re accustomed to. Plus, they have anti-infective properties to prevent bacteria and mold growth. They dry quickly and fold up small and slim.

Crossbody Bag- During my travels to 29 countries, I’ve only been robbed once—in Cameroon at a wedding while carrying a cute clutch. 😏🙄 Backpacks are great, but they can be cut or unzipped without you realizing it. Although there are anti-theft backpacks available, I can’t recommend them since I haven’t tried them myself. A crossbody bag has kept my belongings safe during my travels. Just a heads-up: fanny packs might not be the best option either, as they can be easily flipped open from behind. I find neck pouches and money belts a bit annoying and inconvenient, but they might suit your style better.

Postscript

I always pack a few protein bars.  I am PERPETUALLY hungry, and when I become extremely hungry I become, let's say, a bit irritable. I keep these for emergencies when my  next meal is long into the future or when I don't find the local cuisine appetizing.  For example… I really don't care for dried fish (this is salted fish that they put in the sun to preserve without refrigeration).  Very practical! But, well… Not an appealing aroma. For me it is reminiscent of boiling sweaty gym socks, but just my opinion.

Hey, just so you know, none of my recommendations are sponsored. They're simply things I've genuinely found to be effective.

Safe Voyages!