South Africa What to Pack

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Reviews from VirtualTourist Members

Packing List

by TracyG

Pack as light as possible, as this is the perfect country in which to do some serious travelling. I think it is a lot easier to go with a backpack, but if you are doing an organized tour, you will probably be able to do it with a holdall (I have used both.) Sturdy shoes for hiking as well as some sandals. A jumper/fleece will also be useful at any time of the year, and don't forget a decent set of clothes for nights out, and going to restaurants. Insect repellant and a basic first-aid kit (including diarrhoea remedies and rehydration sachets)And, don't forget the sunscreen. You should really have no problems getting film anywhere, unless you are going totally off the beaten path - in which case stock up before you leave. A waterproof jacket will come in handy at any time of the year, for keeping you both warm and dry. Don't forget the waterbottle and torch.

Packing List

by CDNgirl

Obviously the appropriate shots, and anti-malarial meds. But also take your own Imodium and if you can, a course of broad spectrum anti-biotics(just in case!!) as well as stuff for cold/fever/allergies etc. As well as a good first aid kit. South Africa is great, but if you're in the bush, its better to be prepared.

Packing List

by Krystynn

My rule of thumb is to take enough clothes for one week OR for the length of the trip PLUS two days, whichever is shorter. If you are traveling on business, you can probably pack along two suits and rotate between them. Try to take different colors of shirts/blouses; mixing and matching might fool people into thinking you brought more clothes than you did. That's the whole idea, isn't it? ;-D If you are going on an extended trip, pick one color and stick with it... like say black. If you are part of the Generation X (ahem!).... REJOICE! Why? Because black travels very well. You can get ketchup stains all over your black jeans or coffee stained on your black t-shirt... and nobody will ever notice. Just make sure they don't stand too close to you to catch a whiff of the...er... Well, I'm sure you know what I mean. :-) These are the absolute necessities. So DON'T ever forget to pack...

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Packing List

by SwedishChef

With the elevation of the Highvelt, there is no need to bring any malaria treatment and musquito repellent if you stay along the coasts or on the central plateau. However for eg Kruger park they are a necessary evil. Good sunscreen is vital anywhere! Remember that South Africa uses the old UK-style 3-pin plugs with round pins, and 220v. Adapters can be bought in any good travel store before you depart (the 'all-round-the-world packs most airports carry normally don't have this style of plug). Remember to bring a good sense of humour. Sometimes things just don't work out because of a variety of factors, most of them simply due to the fact that you're not in Kansas anymore :).

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Packing List

by lucybostock

Take a suitcase Take a light overcoat and a pair of trousers as it can get cool at night and when it rains it's cold. Also Cape Town has a cold SE wind. Take a first aid kit just in case If you're going on safari I recommend a tele photo lense

Packing List

by Kaydee

Camping Remember the insect repellant and check before you leave if you will be going to a Malaria infested area in which case you need medication from your doctor. Also check vacinations which you may need in certain areas. Be aware of restrictions in game reserves and do not walk or get out of the car where this is forbidden. People have died trying to get that great photo, wait for the game drives, great photo opportunities then.

Packing List

by DaKoyote

don't take a big bag...just a travel back pack. normal tennis shoes....bring a light poncho (raincoat)..it rains there a lot!! Bring a pair of nice clothes and nice shoes because you want to visit the clubs there....they won't let you in unless you have nice shoes on. medical kit..the usual....south afica will have everything you need...don't bring too much..trust me!! Again, it will not be hard to recharge batteries or to buy film and things..you can buy everything you need from the stores...don't carry anything...pack light..your trip will be more enjoyable.

Packing List

by pmarinova

don't forget musquito repelent

Packing List

by ATLC

You'll want your own needles in case you need to be injected. Aids death rate in SA is horrendous and you want to be sure you have new, clean needles.

Packing List

by xtreme-obses

AK-47 and Mace, or any other combat gear you can find Its surprisingly cold on the highveld. It rains a LOT in summer by Gauteng and in winter in the Cape

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Questions and Answers

guillerminamc profile photo

Q:  Hi all, im travelling to South Africa and Malarone is not sold in Argentina, so I should buy it when I get to South Africa. Do you... 

Gerald_D profile photo

A: You will need a prescription from a South Africa registered doctor. 

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