So, you’re travelling to South Africa and planning to take in the incredible destinations like Cape Town or a safari in the stunning Kruger National Park.
We know that you’re likely to already be dreaming of seeing a new world and immersing yourself in a new culture environment. In fact, we know that you are so excited that even the idea of packing months ahead thrills you.
Well, we have some tips for you to make packing for your trip even easier. Some people think packing light is impossible – it really isn’t!
What to Consider
South Africa has a warm climate all year round perfect for light clothing, but it is important to check the weather forecast before departing. Be sure to pack comfortable shoes for walking or hiking and both a variety of warm and light clothes.
One important thing to consider is what you plan to do whist in South Africa. If you plan on just going sightseeing you will need completely different things compared to for example joining a wildlife conservation program where you might be working in hot and dirty conditions.
Also consider if you prefer a large backpack or a suitcase, both have benefits and again consider the type of trip you are going to do then decide what is best.
If you are struggling for space, start by choosing your heavier clothes to wear on the plane to save space in your bag. Wear a pair of jeans, walking shoes, a light t-shirt and a comfortable jumper.
Packing for the Plane Journey
On the plane pack a small amount of toiletries, and a light change of clothes if your flight is very long or you have a stopover where you will have time to freshen up. Don’t forget that your toiletries need to be airline-approved sizes – you don’t want to have to give up that expensive face cream!
Always check your chosen airline’s baggage fee policies. Most airlines allow you to check at least one bag free, but always double-check, so you don’t end up wasting money or having to leave a bag behind.
Most airlines will only allow a small amount of toiletries and ask that you pack them into a small transparent sleeve in case security ask to see them. Face wipes, face cream, lip-ice and a toothbrush and toothpaste are essentials.
Additionally, some sweets or breath mints will help you feel refreshed and ready to make great first impressions!
Packing Tips
We have gathered a few tricks of the trade to help you pack more efficiently:
- Nothing is worse than spending time in an new and exciting place untangling jewellery. Throwing all your jewellery in a bag and will cause them to tangle and it is so frustrating and time consuming. I suggest you use a pill container to keep them separated.
- A Tic-Tac container is the perfect size to hold bobby pins and earbuds so you’ll always be able to find them easily.
- If you have a lot of charger cables for your phone, iPad and such a spare glasses case works to stop them from tangling in your bag.
- Wrap your shoes in a plastic bag to stop them from making your clothes dirty. I find a shower cap works very well.
- For any items that you don’t want damaging your clothes or electronics—like toothpaste, makeup or shampoo—use a Ziploc! We can agree that there is nothing worse than opening your bag to unpack and half your clothes are covered in face cream. Placing a small piece of plastic or cling wrap between the bottle and the lid, and then screwing the lid on tightly work the best.
- Always Roll your clothes instead of folding them. This saves a ton of space and allows you to pack everything in very tightly.
- Pack your shoes towards the outside of your bag. To protect any fragile products pack them in the middle of your bag or inside your shoes since the cushion can help to protect them. Fill you shoes with your socks and underwear to save space. Fill little holes and gapes in your bag with light items that won’t crease.
- It is helpful to have a bag with unusual colours or markings to help to see it at baggage collection. You can always tie a ribbon around the handle or put a sticker on your bag to help. I have heard that if you mark your bag with “fragile” the airport staff will often load your luggage on top of the others which means yours will come out first at the baggage claim. Never hurts to try!
Start Getting Ready
Whether you are coming to South Africa for a holiday or a gap year volunteer program – there is no doubt that South Africa is the country to be! It is an award-winning destination encompassing a plethora of colourful experiences in one of the most beautiful natural settings in the world. There are so many must-see experiences for cities like Cape Town so spend time researching all destinations.
Remember that local shops have well priced clothes so you might want to leave some space for the items you’ll buy there and will want to take back with you. Also don’t panic if you do forget anything you can usually buy it in South Africa. If you still need more tips view our essential packing tips.
So now you’re armed with the best packing tips! All that’s left to do is to browse our Africa gap year programs and find inspiring ideas for your trip. And if you do go, be sure to get in touch with us to let us know how you get on.