Having a checklist makes packing stress-free and ensures you don’t forget essentials. This Tanzania Safari Packing List is based on what seasoned travelers and guides recommend for comfort, safety, and convenience on game drives, bush flights, and camp stays.
You can save or print this page to tick items off as you pack.
Soft-sided duffel bag (15–20 kg limit on bush flights)
Small carry-on backpack or daypack
Luggage tags with your name & contact
Zip-lock / dry bags for electronics & toiletries
3–4 lightweight long-sleeved shirts (sun/insect protection)
2–3 short-sleeved shirts or breathable T-shirts
2–3 pairs of lightweight trousers / safari pants
1 pair of shorts for warm afternoons
1 warm fleece or jacket (chilly mornings & evenings)
1 lightweight rain jacket / windbreaker
1 wide-brim safari hat or cap
1 scarf or buff (dust & sun protection)
Comfortable walking shoes / trainers
Camp sandals or flip-flops
3–4 sets of undergarments & socks
Swimwear (for lodges with pools)
Prescription medicines (enough for your trip)
Malaria prophylaxis (ask your doctor)
Small first-aid kit (plasters, antiseptic wipes, pain relief)
Insect repellent with 30–50% DEET
Sunscreen (SPF 30+), lip balm with SPF
Rehydration salts & electrolyte powder
Hand sanitizer & wet wipes
After-bite or antihistamine cream
Toiletries (biodegradable soap/shampoo recommended)
Binoculars (8×42 or similar)
Camera / DSLR / smartphone with wildlife-friendly zoom
Extra memory cards & spare batteries
Power bank / portable charger
Headlamp or small torch (flashlight) with spare batteries
Travel adapter (Tanzania uses UK-style 3-pin plug, Type G, 230 V)
Reusable water bottle
Valid passport (6 + months left, 2 blank pages)
Visa / e-Visa confirmation letter
Flight tickets & booking confirmations
Travel insurance policy & emergency contacts
Yellow Fever certificate (if required)
Photocopies of passport & insurance kept separately
Credit/debit cards (inform your bank before travel)
USD cash (small notes, issued after 2006)
Tipping cash in envelopes (USD or Tanzanian Shillings)
Lightweight gloves (for chilly mornings in open vehicles)
Travel pillow & eye mask (long drives/flights)
Journal & pen
Small sewing kit / safety pins
Reusable cloth shopping bag (plastic bags are banned)
Waterproof phone pouch
Travel guidebook or map of Tanzania
Plastic bags — banned in Tanzania
Camouflage clothing — reserved for military use
Excessive jewelry & valuables
Bulky suitcases — difficult on small aircraft
Keep your packing light, neutral-colored, and layered. Most lodges provide daily laundry service, so you don’t need more than a week’s worth of clothes. This list will keep you comfortable, prepared for varying weather, and ready for unforgettable safari adventures.
