Packing List for Zambia

The Right Clothing for Safaris

Choosing the right clothing is essential for a comfortable and safe safari experience in Zambia. The country’s diverse climate conditions and rich wildlife require functional, well-adapted apparel. Layering—also known as the “onion principle”—has proven especially practical for safaris.

Key Features of Safari Clothing

Early morning game drives often start when temperatures can dip as low as 45 to 50°F (7 to 10°C) during the cool dry season (May to August). As the day progresses, the temperature typically rises to a pleasant 73 to 80°F (23 to 27°C). In the hot dry season (September to November), it’s not uncommon for temperatures to soar above 90°F (32°C), occasionally reaching 100°F (38°C) or higher. The rainy season (December to April) brings high humidity and sudden downpours, creating an entirely different set of challenges.

Safari clothing should therefore be lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying. Natural fabrics like cotton and linen, or moisture-wicking synthetic materials, work best. Loose-fitting garments allow for airflow and help prevent overheating. Long-sleeved shirts and long pants are highly recommended, as they protect against the sun’s intense rays and insect bites—especially from tsetse flies.

Neutral, earth-tone colors like khaki, beige, and olive green are ideal. These blend well into the natural surroundings and help avoid attracting insects. Dark colors such as black and blue, on the other hand, tend to draw tsetse flies and should be avoided.

For Zambia’s unpredictable weather, packing an insulating mid-layer like a fleece sweater is advisable. A windproof and waterproof outer layer offers protection from sudden rain showers and cool breezes. A wide-brimmed hat shields your face, neck, and head from the intense African sun. Sturdy, closed-toe shoes—such as lightweight hiking boots or durable sneakers—provide support and protect against thorns and insects.

Recommended Safari Clothing List

For a well-prepared safari in Zambia, consider packing the following essentials:

• Long-sleeved shirts and long pants: Made from lightweight, breathable fabrics for sun and insect protection.
• T-shirts and shorts: For hot days spent at the lodge or in more sheltered areas.
• Fleece jacket or sweater: As a warm mid-layer for chilly mornings and evenings.
• Waterproof rain jacket or poncho: Essential during the rainy season.
• Wide-brimmed hat: For sun and insect protection.
• Scarf or bandana: Useful for shielding against dust or providing extra warmth.
• Sturdy, closed-toe shoes: Lightweight hiking boots or durable sneakers for stability and protection.
• Quick-drying clothing: Particularly valuable during the rainy season or for water-based activities.
• UV-protective clothing: Offering added defense for extended sun exposure.

With this carefully curated selection of safari clothing, travelers will be well-equipped to immerse themselves in Zambia’s wildlife and breathtaking landscapes—staying comfortable, protected, and ready for every adventure.

The Right Footwear for Every Activity

Choosing the right footwear is crucial for ensuring comfort and safety during your journey through Zambia. Whether you’re navigating thorny bushland on a walking safari, hiking rugged trails, or exploring lively city streets, the terrain and climate demand footwear that’s suited to each activity.

Shoes for Safaris

When it comes to safaris—especially walking safaris—ankle-high hiking boots or lightweight trekking boots are the best choice. They provide protection from thorns, sharp rocks, and small wildlife, like snakes. Breathable materials and a comfortable fit are key to staying cool during long walks in the heat. Popular and proven models such as the Lowa Renegade GTX Mid or Meindl Island MFS offer both stability and waterproofing. It’s important to break in your boots before your trip to avoid blisters and discomfort.

Hiking and City Exploration

For more demanding hikes or mountainous regions in Zambia, sturdy hiking shoes with a slip-resistant, grippy sole are essential. Models like the Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX or Merrell Moab 3 are known for their traction and comfort on uneven terrain. For casual city tours or light walks, well-ventilated low-cut shoes or versatile trekking sandals work well. Options such as the Teva Hurricane XLT2 or Keen Newport H2 are lightweight, quick-drying, and still provide solid grip—ideal for navigating hot streets or uneven paths.

General Footwear Tips

Regardless of the activity, it’s a good idea to pack at least two pairs of well-worn, comfortable shoes. This ensures you have an alternative if one pair gets wet or dirty. With the right footwear, you’ll be ready to fully enjoy Zambia’s breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture—comfortably and safely.

Luggage Choices for a Trip to Zambia

Selecting the right luggage can greatly influence how flexible and comfortable your travels in Zambia will be. Given the sometimes challenging transport conditions—whether on safaris or domestic flights in small aircraft—travelers should opt for sturdy yet adaptable luggage. Soft-sided duffel bags and backpacks are generally preferred over hard-shell suitcases, although there are certain situations where a suitcase can still be a practical choice.

Benefits of Backpacks and Duffel Bags

For most travelers heading to Zambia, a flexible backpack or a soft duffel bag is the smartest option. Independent travelers and safari-goers, in particular, appreciate the ease of handling. Backpacks can be comfortably carried on your back, which is especially advantageous on uneven ground or when frequently changing accommodations. This mobility becomes invaluable when navigating remote camps or national parks.

Backpacks also offer an added level of security—because they stay close to your body, they are less vulnerable to theft, a factor to consider when visiting urban areas like Lusaka or Livingstone. From a transport perspective, soft-sided luggage is easier to stow in the limited cargo space of safari vehicles or small planes. It also takes up less room in lodges or hostels and can adapt flexibly to varying packing needs. A primary piece of luggage measuring approximately 27 x 12 x 12 inches (70 x 30 x 30 cm) is recommended, along with a daypack (22 to 40 liters) for day trips and safaris.

Suitcases as an Alternative

While backpacks are often the best choice, a suitcase can still be a practical option in certain travel situations. Travelers staying primarily in established hotels or lodges, with less need for mobility, may find that a suitcase offers more comfort. Hard-shell suitcases, in particular, provide better protection for fragile equipment like camera gear or electronics.

However, hard suitcases are often impractical for safaris and domestic flights in Zambia. The small cargo compartments on light aircraft and safari jeeps are not designed to accommodate bulky, rigid luggage. If you prefer a suitcase, opt for a lightweight, soft-sided model. Regardless of your choice, be mindful of airline restrictions—domestic flights typically allow 15 to 20 kg (33 to 44 lbs) for checked luggage and 5 to 7 kg (11 to 15 lbs) for carry-on bags.

Ultimately, whether you choose a backpack or a suitcase depends on your itinerary and personal preferences. However, for those looking to explore Zambia with maximum flexibility and a spirit of adventure, a backpack or soft duffel bag is usually the better choice.

Outdoor and Camping Gear

Zambia offers adventurous travelers extraordinary nature experiences—whether you’re sleeping under a sky full of stars in a national park or camping along the banks of the Zambezi River. However, those opting for camping should be prepared for the country’s challenging conditions. Hot days, cool nights, and pesky insects call for carefully selected equipment. The right tents, sleeping bags, and practical cooking gear will not only ensure comfort but also provide protection against the elements.

Tents and Sleeping Bags

Due to Zambia’s variable climate, hybrid tents have proven to be particularly effective. These all-purpose tents offer insect protection, excellent ventilation, and PVC window covers that can be sealed in case of rain. Outback-style tents with round windows and mesh screens are also a great choice, ensuring optimal airflow—especially beneficial in the heat. For extremely hot regions, Fresh & Black tents are a smart investment. Designed with special materials, they keep the interior cool and dark even under intense sun—perfect for a midday nap.

When it comes to sleeping bags, tropical sleeping bags like the Carinthia Tropen are a reliable option. They are lightweight, breathable, and often come with integrated mosquito nets. Alternatively, lightweight summer sleeping bags made from silk or cotton can also provide a cool sleeping environment and are frequently combined with insect protection. A sleeping pad or camping mat offers insulation against the cold ground, which can be noticeable in the early morning hours. For added flexibility, consider packing a travel sheet or sleeping bag liner, which is also useful for maintaining hygiene when staying in lodges.

Cooking and Dining Essentials

For multi-day wilderness stays, a functional camp kitchen setup is essential. A compact camping stove allows you to prepare hot meals even when there’s no infrastructure nearby. Lightweight camping cookware, along with a collapsible water container, ensures you stay well-supplied in remote areas. A sturdy water bottle—preferably one that can double as a hot water bottle—provides extra comfort on chilly nights.

Folding camping chairs and a small table can enhance your comfort at camp and make food preparation more convenient. A headlamp or flashlight is also indispensable—both for navigating in the dark and cooking after sunset.

With this well-rounded selection of camping gear, adventurers will be well-prepared to explore Zambia’s wilderness comfortably and safely.

Essential Gear for Your Safari

To ensure your safari in Zambia is a truly unforgettable experience, having the right equipment is key. The remote wildlife reserves, dusty trails, and sometimes extreme weather conditions can be demanding for travelers. With the proper safari gear and a few personal essentials, you can maximize your comfort during game drives and be well-prepared for any unexpected situations.

Safari-Specific Equipment

A high-quality pair of binoculars is one of the most valuable tools on any safari. Models with 8x or 10x magnification are ideal for spotting even the most elusive wildlife from a distance. Complementing this, a camera with a zoom lens is a must to capture those once-in-a-lifetime moments. Since dust and bumpy roads are part of everyday safari life, be sure to pack spare batteries, extra memory cards, and a cleaning kit for your camera equipment.

To protect your electronics and important documents, waterproof and dustproof bags are highly recommended. A durable daypack is perfect for carrying your personal items during game drives. If you’re serious about wildlife photography, consider bringing a bean bag camera rest—it helps stabilize your camera when shooting from the vehicle, ensuring sharp, shake-free images.

Zambia’s sun can be relentless, so a wide-brimmed hat, UV-protection sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen are must-haves. Lightweight, breathable clothing in earth tones like khaki, beige, or olive green is best—it keeps you cool while blending in with the natural surroundings. For chilly mornings and evenings, a fleece jacket or light sweater will keep you warm, and a rain jacket is essential for sudden downpours. Ankle-high hiking boots or sturdy trekking shoes offer stability on bush walks, while comfortable sandals are great for relaxing at camp.

Personal Essentials

Beyond safari gear, a few personal items can enhance your safety and comfort. A strong insect repellent containing DEET is crucial for keeping mosquitoes at bay and reducing the risk of malaria. Long, lightweight clothing provides extra protection from both sun and insects. A small first aid kit with band-aids, pain relievers, and any personal medications ensures you can handle minor injuries quickly.

For hygiene on the go, wet wipes and hand sanitizer are practical companions. A headlamp or flashlight with spare batteries is vital for navigating remote camps or nighttime activities. Since clean drinking water isn’t always guaranteed, a reusable water bottle with a built-in filter or water purification tablets can be a lifesaver.

Keep important documents like your passport, visa, and travel insurance paperwork easily accessible and safe. Some cash in local currency is helpful for tipping or small purchases. Finally, a few extras can enhance your safari experience—a notebook for travel notes, light snacks for long drives, and a microfiber cloth to clean your camera lens can all prove invaluable.

With this well-rounded packing list, you’ll be fully prepared to immerse yourself in Zambia’s incredible wildlife and landscapes—while staying comfortable, safe, and ready for whatever the journey brings.

Electronics and Charging Solutions

Zambia’s untouched wilderness is a dream for adventure seekers, but its remote regions and often unreliable power supply can present challenges for travelers. Whether you’re on a safari or exploring the country’s rugged backcountry, having the right electronic gear and flexible charging options is essential. From capturing wildlife encounters to staying navigationally secure and connected off the grid—being well-prepared will ensure your journey runs smoothly.

Essential Devices and Accessories

A high-quality camera is a must for wildlife viewing. Models like the Sony Alpha 7 IV stand out for their fast autofocus and convenient USB charging capability. A telephoto lens (e.g., 100-400mm) is ideal for capturing animals from a distance. Be sure to pack extra batteries, memory cards, and a lens cleaning kit, as dust and sand are ever-present on safari.

Binoculars, such as the STEINER Ranger Xtreme 8x56, are another safari essential, offering sharp clarity even in low-light conditions—perfect for spotting distant wildlife.

For self-drive travelers or adventurers venturing off the beaten path, a GPS device is invaluable, especially in areas with poor cell coverage. Alternatively, offline map apps like maps.me can be preloaded on your smartphone. A rugged, dust-resistant smartphone is recommended, and purchasing a local prepaid SIM card upon arrival is a cost-effective way to stay connected.

A headlamp or flashlight with spare batteries is also crucial. Many safari camps turn off electricity overnight, and having reliable lighting is vital after sunset.

Power Solutions Off the Grid

Electricity can be inconsistent in Zambia’s remote regions—especially in safari lodges or during multi-day excursions. Travelers relying on electronic devices should bring multiple charging solutions.

High-capacity power banks are essential. Models with 30,000mAh or more can recharge cameras, smartphones, and GPS devices for several days. Portable power stations like the SUNBEAMsystem Smart Power Station (154Wh) are particularly robust and compatible with solar charging. Fast-charging options such as USB-C with Power Delivery (PD) are ideal for quickly powering up your devices.

For longer stays or camping in areas with no electricity, solar chargers offer added independence. Foldable solar panels like the SUNBEAMsystem Fold Series or compact options like the Zafi Solar Charger, designed specifically for harsh African conditions, can keep power banks and small devices charged using sunlight.

Given the potential for dust, heat, and humidity, splash-proof (minimum IPX4) and shock-resistant devices are recommended. Finally, a universal travel adapter (Type G, 220/240V) ensures compatibility with Zambia’s outlets.

With this setup, you’ll be well-equipped to document your experiences, navigate safely, and stay connected—even in Zambia’s most remote corners.