The essentials
- Neutral, lightweight layers in khaki, olive or tan for the day.
- A warm fleece, windproof jacket, beanie and gloves for early drives.
- Comfortable walking shoes, sandals, a hat, sunglasses and high-SPF sunscreen.
- Binoculars (one pair each), camera, spare batteries, the right plugs and a power bank.
- Insect repellent, your prescribed medicines and a small first-aid kit.
- Passport, visas, insurance, booking details and emergency contacts, with copies stored separately.
- A reusable water bottle.
- A soft-sided bag: light aircraft limits are often 20 kg including hand luggage.
Self-drive extras
Printed route plan, offline maps, vehicle paperwork, emergency contacts and a way to communicate where there's no phone signal.
Travelling with children
Sun protection, snacks, comfort items, medicines and plenty of downtime.
Common mistakes
- Underestimating the cold: June and July mornings in an open vehicle can be close to freezing.
- Underestimating the heat: October afternoons can be brutal. Light, breathable clothes and a wide hat.
- The wrong bag: hard suitcases can be refused on small planes. Check every regional airline's limit.
- Camouflage: it's restricted or inappropriate in some countries. Stick to plain earth tones.
For our top eight tips, read Lance's field notes.
