Planning your dream safari is exciting — but between the anticipation and the airport, it’s easy to overlook the essentials. Whether it’s your first time venturing into Southern Africa or you’re a seasoned globetrotter, this checklist ensures nothing important is left behind.

We’ve rounded up the must-haves:
- Travel documents you really don’t want to forget
- Health and safety prep (yes, including yellow fever and malaria bits)
- Currency, card tips, and what to know about swiping in the bush
- Luggage dos and don’ts — from power banks to proper footwear
- Pro packing tricks for climate, culture, and comfort
Consider this your pre-adventure companion — smart, thorough, and just the right amount of paranoid. Because the only surprises you want on safari… are the good kind.