Safari Luggage - what you need to know
You’ve been dreaming about this safari in for years. You’ve got it all planned out. You even have your safari packing list. But what kind of safari luggage do you need?
It is essential to understand that there is a huge difference between the luggage allowance for international flights and a Safari. That means – what they allow you to bring on an international flight, is not what you will be allowed on Safari.
There are very strict size and weight limitations.
Size restrictions vary from place to place and these restrictions are seldom explicitly defined. However, keep in mind that you will be traveling on a Safari vehicle with other guests. There is not a ton of room for large, heavy suitcases. In fact, suitcases and safari do not go together. (Oversized luggage can be stored at the airport).
Also, if you are flying to your safari location on a small aircraft, your space is more limited.

Not sure what to wear on Safari? Here’s a complete Safari Packing List
Your baggage weight limit on Safari is typically around 44lbs / 20kg in South Africa. That is the total luggage allowance, meaning it includes your hand luggage and main bag. (For clarity on what they allow, you may want to check with the Safari ahead of time.)
This weight restriction generally means you can have a medium sized bag. Here’s a helpful guidelines:
- 24 inches / 62cm long
- 12 inches / 30cm high
- 10 inches / 25cm wide
This may seem small, but really, you shouldn’t need more than this because Safari lodges and camps provide towels and toiletries. You can even have most of your laundry done while on Safari. (Camp staff will not wash women’s underwear.)
The Safari luggage you choose will also depend on what kind of safari you will be going on. For example, if you are going on a walking safari, your best bet is a backpack. If you are going on a driving safari, you will want to opt for a duffle bag or something similar.
Size and Capacity
Your Safari luggage needs to be small enough to pass the restrictions, yet spacious enough to hold everything you need for your Safari.
Weight
There are weight and size restrictions to Safari luggage. Keep this in mind as you select a bag. The lighter your bag is, the more you can take with you. Choose carefully though. While the weight of the bag is important, you don’t want to compromise on the construction of the bag either.
Durability
Finding a Safari bag that is both durable and lightweight is the perfect blend of form and function. Try to choose Safari luggage that you can use for future Safaris or other adventures. Try to go for something that is sturdy enough to withstand the wear and tear of you—the international traveler. Consider durable materials like canvas, leather, nylon, etc. Also, make sure the zippers and other fastenings are made of quality materials.
Handles
If you’ll be carrying your bag, you want to make sure the handles are rounded or padded for a more comfortable carry.
Versatility
You may need to carry your bag from place to place. Handles are great, but you may want the versatility of a shoulder strap. That way, you can easily carry your bag on your shoulder. Also, try to get a bag that has an adjustable shoulder strap so that it can be worn at different heights.
Organization
You’ll need your clothes, shoes, accessories, personal toiletries (that are not provided by the lodge), travel documents, and a little medical bag. It’s best to keep these things organized so that it’s easy to access when you need them. It’s, therefore, a great idea to get a bag that gives you organization options.