Be prepared for hot days. Even in the winter months, temperatures during the day stay in the mid-60s in most of South Africa, climbing into the 80s in the summer. Pack several pairs of shorts and T-shirts and focus on light fabrics that breath well. Don't expect laundry services, so bring enough for the duration of your trip -- especially underwear and socks. A wide-brimmed hat is a good idea to protect against the harsh sun and bring a bathing suit if your trip includes swimming opportunities. South African weather remains sunny even in the winter, but nights can be chilly. Brisk early mornings are the best time to see wildlife, so bring a light sweater, windbreaker and warm pajamas. Lastly, bring a pair of comfortable walking or running shoes and sandals or flip-flops to wear at lodges and campsites.
Many safaris have a limit on pack sizes and weights; pushing a jeep out of the mud is hard enough when it's not loaded down. Call your tour operator in advance for the specifics, but expect to be allowed one larger bag and a daypack for personal items and valuables. Be prepared for rain and bring some plastic bags or a waterproof pack cover -- in addition to your own rain gear. Even if your tour operator has a medical kit, a small, personal first aid kit is always a good idea. Remember items like painkillers, digestive medications, bandages and antibacterial cream. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend hepatitis A and typhoid vaccinations for most travelers to South Africa, especially those visiting rural areas. You should also bring any prescription medicines you take regularly.
Bring basic toiletries like soap, toothpaste, tissues, a toothbrush and deodorant. You'll also need sunscreen with a high SPF rating and bug repellent. Mosquitoes can be a problem on many safari routes and even in lodges. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises travelers going to rural areas in South Africa to discuss malaria medication and prevention with their doctors prior to departure. Be environmentally sensitive in the bush and bring biodegradable options whenever possible. You'll want a good flashlight and batteries for getting around at night and a pocket knife will always come in handy. Most importantly, don't forget your water bottle and a personal set of binoculars in case your tour operator doesn't have enough to go around.
Bring a good book or a notebook for writing during the rare down time on a safari. Wildlife identification guides can add a lot to your experience. If you think you'll want more food than your guide provides, a few hearty snacks like raisins and peanuts are a good choice. You may be able to charge electronics at some lodges, but you'll need a universal adaptor for U.S. electronics in South Africa. Make sure your appliances are also compatible with the 230 volt current in the country. A charger with a car adaptor can come in very handy on a safari. If you have weak knees or ankles and are going on safari over rugged terrain like parts of the Interior Plateau in South Africa, bring trekking poles or good ankle or knee braces. Lastly, don't forget your camera.
