You don't need to take a blanket and pillow, unless that's just a neck pillow. Those are provided on the flight. I think SAA is fairly strict on the carry-on weight limits. They will most likely look at your carry-on at the time you check in and not wait until you're at the gate. I haven't had the pilferage problem at JNB, but others have. I just use a cable tie on my case and check it. If your case is delayed, they are responsible for getting it to you, no matter where you are. Some airports have the shrinkwrap stands and that works fairly well. They also have those at JNB.

I worry about pilferage especially on international flights. Our flight into JNB luggage was "lost" and when it arrived a day late the only thing missing was a camera. Every safari to JNB I hear first hand stories of camera or other electronic things being stolen from checked luggage. And of course SAA says they don't cover such items, your problem. But more importantly it's gone when you want it most.

Anyway, my camera carry-on bag weighs about 25 lbs but never had problem, although been few years since flying SAA into JNB.

regards - tom
ps - secret to traveling underwear - wear it a week then turn it inside-out and wear another week!!!

This is probably a dumb question, but can you tell me just why you need four cameras?

You talking to me??? I take four cameras.
I take a Nikon D200 and a D40x as back up. Last safari the D200 failed and happy I had D40. I also take two video cameras, same reason. Also, my companion(s) typically take only one camera so if theirs fail, they could borrow one of mine. Know I'm extreme about it but photography very much a part of my safari enjoyment. YMMV

regards - tom

Clever title for a packing post was my 1st thought.

My 2nd thought was I wonder if Tom will respond, knowing his suggestion from past posts. True to form, he is advocating the week-and-switch approach again.

On that topic, consider the fast-drying undies available at many travel stores. I got mine from Tilley (hat people) over a decade ago and they still are intact. They really do dry in under 24 hours so you can wash and wear, thereby cutting down on the #s of pairs you bring.

I always take 2 cameras, sometimes a third that is very quick/simple. But I'm with Dogster, 4 does seem to be a lot. I also take 2 battery chargers just in case something happens to one of them.

I agree with ShayTay about no blanket or pillow. If you need a neck pillow, get the blowup kind. That's what I have.

I wear two pairs trousers which helps keep me warm on cold overnight flights and saves room.

I use the jacket with lots of pockets. I put heavy stuff in there. If needed my binocs are an accessory, worn around my neck. Good thing you're not concerned with looking like a dork because the above attire can be dorkish. Or it could be trendsetting.

Do take binocs! Though Tom will try to talk you out of it, I bet.

Have a wonderful ultimate bucket list trip!

How about paper/disposable 'wears?'
Not sure if you're male or female, but there are those for female - 5/pack costs $5. Wear, dispose.

They're gotten better/stylish since first on market some 20/yrs ago.
If male and you can find these in black or blue, rather than pink... you're set to go.

dogster - I thought that question might come up. If I were a man, I'd probably be the one with a belt and suspenders. I have a Nikon D40 and D90 - one with a 300 mm zoom and the other with a standard 18-55 mm lens. The theory is that if I had only one camera, the perfect shot would come along; I'd need to change lenses in the dust and by the time I was reorganized, the shot would be gone. Then I got a little point and shoot Coolpix as my backup. The rationale here is that I can just carry it around in my pocket. Also, I went on a trip to Churchill Manatoba a few years ago to see the polar bear. The Smithsonian "expert leader" had a huge spotting scope. The people with point and shoots could put their cameras up to the lens and get spectacular pictures - way better than my zoom got. So, if somebody on tour or in the lodges just might have a scope, I'll be all set. You never know. And then of course, there is the new camcorder. The D90 can take video, but a "real" camcorder will be better. I hope.

It's all about overkill.

"wonder if Tom will respond, knowing his suggestion from past posts. True to form, he is advocating the week-and-switch approach again."
Yeah, something about - can't teach an old dog new tricks
Yeah, binocs? If you like them, take'm. Personally, I don't like them.
Batteries? For me three different designs, three different chargers, etc., what a pain.

Agree about having two bodies with two differnt lenses and not switching. But someone will ask - what more do you need than an 35x super-zoom lens (Canon SX40)? Well, maybe time to start another thread on safari cameras .

regards - tom

You can wash underwear, so two pairs is plenty. Cameras can't be bought on safari, so take the cameras. You can check your luggage home - who cares if they lose your stuff on the way back. Pix are irreplaceable. We carried on a 40 lb wood hippo, so it's just the luck of the draw. I take a cart so we can drag our crap through the airport and to fake that our stuff is too heavy. Saves our backs and it's cheap enough that if we need to leave it behind i won't be po'd.

We take one of these for the airport and toss it into the carry-on duffel:

http://www.brookstone.com/compact-luggage-cart-folding?bkiid=SubCategory_Travel_Luggage_Accessories_More_Luggage_Accessories|SubCategoryWidget|637876p&catId=L3_MoreLuggage|L2_LuggageAccess|L1_Travel

Most airlines allow a carry-on, a "small" bag and a jacket. No need to ever check - you only need two changes of clothes on safari. No one gives two hoots if you wear the same clothes every day. Easy, even with four cameras to fit it all into the space allowed. At worst, you must buy toiletries at the airport. The small puddle jumpers claim to have an allowance but I've never had them enforce it, especially on the high end trip you are going on. I'd never leave the camera equipment, if that's what is important to you, at home. I'd leave clothes at home, but nothing I couldn't buy at the airport. If you buy stuff and don't want to check, donate it or just leave it at the last camp. Someone will find a use for it. (an extra, old crappy camera that we would just trash with a small memory card would be very appreciated - it's something that we take for granted and yet the people who work at the camps have no access to. Sad but true. I leave all of my clothes I don't need at my last camp.)

>You can wash underwear, so two pairs is plenty.

Especially if you get the quick drying ones such as ExOfficio's products. Advertised dry in 5-6 hours; in practice, 12-16, still better than the cotton jobs.

And in a very dry environment, outside in a slight breeze I would even consider only one pair...

Lordy, lordy - have we all gone mad? Four cameras and now only one pair of knickers? Could our priorities be just a tad warped?

Next it'll be an IMAX camera, a personal film crew and nude safaris.

A natural progression, Dogster.

This is why I love this forum.

I don't travel to do laundry, why I now go the 'paper' route. Hey, I don't do laundry at home... send it out

That said, even on the few occasions I've washed out pure cotton wears, they dry in a few hours, so sure don't need any special so-called, 'quick dry' at an extra cost to purchase.

Celia
You are right.
I too enjoyed reading this post. Especially from someone who lives in Africa.

I have no suggestions except maybe one. Get to Africa no matter what.

Yours on Safari
Mark

Buy a Scottevest jacket. You can stuff a couple of camera bodies and other stuffs inside the jacket while wearing it. I don't advise wearing the jacket all day full of stuffs in it, but it'll get you through the luggage weight limit issue.

"Lordy, lordy - have we all gone mad? Four cameras and now only one pair of knickers? Could our priorities be just a tad warped?

Next it'll be an IMAX camera, a personal film crew and nude safaris."

Too too funny!!!! Seriously tho, yes cameras are important, but so are clean knickers no matter what your age!!

When we left from Cape Town last summer, we had to weigh our carryon with the SA attendant, but were allowed to take all our electronics out of the bag before weighing. That made a significant difference. In fact, most of the weight was in the camera equipment.

Oh, dear. I never thought my first post to this forum would set off such a firestorm. Tee Hee, Tee Hee.

Thank you all for your heartfelt thoughts and suggestions. Mary Sch, your experience is very comforting to know.

I will ditch the blanket, but I will take my inflatable pillow. I have already bought the quick-dry unmentionables and socks. I don’t think I could actually go without washing; I can still hear my mother reminding me never to be in an accident unless I’m wearing clean underwear. I spent the afternoon looking at “Scotte” and similar Vests, and will probably spring for one of them.

For a few minutes, I did consider trying to go all carryon, but I want to bring a pair of trekking poles for walks in the bush. I'm not as stable as I used to be, and besides, I might meet a cobra or mamba. (do you think I might?) If I don’t want to be arrested, I must check the poles, so I might as well fill up the duffle with some other things, including an ultralight backpack which I’ll use for cameras and sunscreen/Deet/etc. while on game drives. I have no weight issues with the check in luggage. I hope a thief would not find the poles and pack attractive, but I could get along without them, although they are both brand new and not inexpensive.

Again, I thank you all for your varied observations and suggestions. My takeaway is that going minimal is good. Taking great pictures is better. Enjoying Africa is priceless.

I know who to turn to with other questions as the date approaches. Fifty-five days and counting.

MB

"...going minimal is good. Taking great pictures is better. Enjoying Africa is priceless."

Very well said indeed, madam!!!

regards - tom

You're not going to be walking alone. The guides will deal with snakes. If you poke one all you will do is piss it off. Trekking poles seem WAY over the top - and four cameras?!! You won't be trekking much (maybe a few short walks around camp or a few yards from your safari vehicle if you're lucky). Check with the travel co - most camps will have a walking stick (or just a stick) you can use. Take a minimal amount of DEET, too. Most of your camps supply that. You are going on a high end trip - they take very good care of you. I remember my first packing folly for S Africa. I didn't use most of the stuff I brought. But I didn't take a little duct tape, which I really could have used.

On reflection, best to let dear Roadie take the truckload of useless supplies she thinks she needs. Once she lumps them through a few airports she'll get the message.

Like christabir, I suspect that the amount of shlep involved on this tour will be minimal - but should she lag behind on the tour, buried under a mountain of cameras, walking sticks, litres of water, emergency brandy, granola bars and a backpack filled with handwipes, battery chargers, sunscreen, duct tape, DEET and snake repellant, a handsome African gentleman will probably pick her up, sling her over his shoulder and rejoin the group.

Which might be rather good.

Chris - -

Thanks for the heads up on duct tape. I had seen it on several sample packing lists, but couldn’t come up with a reason to pack it. But now I will.

Unfortunately, I'm not able to take the yellow fever vaccine, as it contains a live virus, and mosquitoes just love it when they see me coming. But it is good to know that DEET will be available, so I can cut back on the supply I was bringing. I do have a note from my doctors saying the vaccine is contraindicated. Apparently, this will be enable me to get back into South Africa from Zambia.

Forgive me for providing Too Much Information, but nearly four straight years of chemo have left me moving slowly, and somewhat unsteadily. Hence the trekking poles. When I signed up for the trip, I learned that there will be some walks, and I promised them that I would not participate if I would be a drag on the group. I think the poles will help me keep up.

My comment about the snakes was somewhat tongue in cheek. I have told my friends that I want to meet either a cobra or black mamba and pet it on the head – “nice snakey snakey”. The rector at my church assures me that this will result in a very crowded, lively memorial service. In fact, I watched way too much Crocodile Hunter, and while I would really love to see venomous snakes in the wild, I have the good sense to leave reptile scouting up to the professionals.

mb

Dogster, I like your thinking.

I shall be another Crazy American Tourist - overpacked and underprepared. A damsel in distress. A good way to pick up handsome men. Or to have them pick me up - literally.

But may we exchange the brandy with scotch? Or maybe a nice merlot? And I must defend my need for sunscreen. I am, or was, a redhead, and I sent my dermatologist's kids through Princeton on my basal cells. Perhaps I should also bring a parasol.

mb

Dogster, I like your thinking.

I shall be another Crazy American Tourist - overpacked and underprepared. A damsel in distress. A good way to pick up handsome men. Or to have them pick me up - literally.

But may we exchange the brandy with scotch? Or maybe a nice merlot? And I must defend my need for SPF 459 sunscreen. I am, or was, a redhead, and I sent my dermatologist's kids through Princeton on my basal cells. Perhaps I should also bring a parasol.

mb

Awwww, Roadie - I think you're a great gal. Can I come with you? I'll be your gigolo.

I mean that in the nicest possible way. lol lol lol.

Roadie,

I have visions of you walking in the bush with your gigolo in tow, two cameras around your neck, one in the Scottevest, and a spare tucked away discreetly into the quickdry unmentionables; a parasol in one hand, and your trekking pole in the other which you are wielding to fight off a black mamba. Oh, what a trip it will be!

Seeing even one snake throughout your entire trip would be unusual--and lucky. That's why your walking guide goes first, to frighten off any unsuspecting creepy crawlies.

Whatever you do or don't pack, it appears are bringing along the right attitude, which is even more important than undies.

Please check in again as you count down to departure!

Audition your gigolos carefully, R. Don't become an unwitting palanquin bearer.

Oh, the pictures in my head!!

Dogster = = = you can be my gigolo anytime. Shall I be on the lookout for someone wearing a white carnation?

Atravelynn = = = You are right. It will be quite a sight to behold. All we’ll need is the IMAX camera and film crew to take it all in. It will go viral on Youtube. The vest is on order to complete the ensemble.

Many thanks to you all for the advice, ideas, and critiques. Not to mention a lively introduction to the forum. I will check in again before I go, and I hope to bring back an interesting trip report and a picture or three(thousand).

Wish me luck.

MB

I do wish you luck, mb, and I hope I have as much fun on my trip this coming Aug-Sept, my fifteenth to SA, I think, as you will certainly have on your first!

I have an absolutely stunning sun hat that will go with me this time. In the past I've been sensible, (at least after my first time), and packed only sensible, coordinated clothing, and minimal first aid items, and carefully made lists of it all in case of theft and insurance claims, and made more lists and checked things off, and generally acted prudently in all things packing. But this time, by golly, the gorgeous hat goes with me!!

So we can look forward to 3000 photos, an IMAX production, an account of Roadie's gigolo auditions, and at least one photo of Celia's stunning sun hat!

For those of us without a trip to Africa for a while, we should still be in for some excitement!

I'm packed, my darling and waiting for you to send the tickets...

I'm traveling light, knowing how you hate unnecessary luggage - just a small folding bed, a Sealy Posturepedic mattress and 1000 count Indian weave sheets. I know you are carrying the pillows. I've added a set of Louis Vuitton suitcases for my suits and a camo-lurex safari jacket to carry the overflow. I'll look very dashing - if you squint it'll be rather like Sean Connery when he had hair. Alas, in the light of day, I look more like Keith Richards after a very bad night. Love will have to be blind, I fear - or at least, partially sighted.

Now, to the gigolo auditions - I've been studying up on what I must do. Gosh... what an palaver - I'd quite forgotten. I've hired a drama coach to rehearse - rather like 'The King's Speech' - and he assures me I'll pass or die in the attempt. We may need a team of stretcher-bearers to carry me away after that, but where there's a will, there's a way.

Do you think we should video the auditions? I know the howling throng in here will want proof. Perhaps a live web-cam?

Dogster needs a drama coach as much as Roadie needs a fifth camera.

I didn't want to confuse things on the new camera thread (Chewyhead asks which camera body). I want to suggest four. And take dogster and Roadie along for fun!

Atravelynn, you don't have to wait for the photo of my stunning sun hat. It's now on my profile picture. I'm just hoping Roadie's fab photo will show up on hers too! And I really hope it includes pix of her gigolo applicants.

The hat is smashing Celia. One of the 5 cameras must have video so lights, camera, action Dogster! I'm squinting per your suggestion.

I was about to say I'd rise to the occasion, atravelynn - but then I thought better of it. There are low-life types in here who would mangle an innocent phrase.

Alas, my African amour-to-be seems to have forgotten to send the tickets. I'm crestfallen - virtually suicidal. Perfectly rehearsed, all dressed up - and no place to go.

Women are cruel.

Dogster, I was about to console you on your crestfallen state - but then I thought better of it. There are low-life types in here who would mangle an innocent phrase.

Happy Travels, Roadie and the rest, lowlifes and all!

Hello!! I just discovered this forum yesterday and I am going on the same Smithsonian trip in August!! This is my bucket trip that I have dreamt about for 50 years, ever since I read the book Born Free about Elsa the lioness! I would dearly love to hear about your experiences and any helpful advice you could give me. This is a first time trip for me and it's overwhelming. I have already learned a lot just reading the thread to this point.

"I have already learned a lot just reading the thread to this point."

So, GwenC, are you bringing cameras or underwear?

Advice requested by GwenC: I'm sure you'll get packing info and suggestions from Smithsonian. Bring binocs. Keep a journal or at least brief notes. Call your credit card co before leaving home so your cards don't get cancelled after an African transaction. Bring copies of your passport and other important documents and email attachments of those scanned docs to yourself. Bring a lot of US $1s. Pack layers of clothes. Early mornings can be cold, especially in Ngorongoro so a hat or headband and gloves are a good idea because the top of the vehicle will be off and it gets cold at 20-30 mph. Reinforce your buttons before leaving home. Trim your toenail before leaving home. Take hand sanitizing gel in the smallest container. To increase the amount of stuff in your carryon (there is a chance the checked luggage will be delayed) tie any extra shoes to the outside of the carryon. Bring a big garbage bag, folded flat. Numerous ziplocks. Store your toothpaste in a zipped ziplock to help keep out small creatures. I had a mouse help itself to the lower half of my tube. Wrap about 2 feet of duct tape, the kind that can be ripped from the roll, around a pencil just in case. If you have any night drives bring a tiny keychain flashlight. The packing list will suggest a flashlight probably. Bring your own bird book or get the apps. Learn some of the animal names in Swahili, plus please, thank you, etc. If you take photos of kids during village visits, mail copies to the safari provider so the kids can get the photos when the company travels there again. Don't give out candy or pens to kids. If you wish to bring non-candy gifts for children, give them to the adults in charge of the kids. In addition to a tip, you might wish to bring something for your guide(s) from your hometown such as a cap, a t-shirt, a small packaged food item, or a local craft.

Experiences requested by GwenC: I could list millions, but you'll have your own. Here's one to skip. If you see a bunch of white junk scattered about as you enter the Serengeti, don't exclaim, "Oh no! Look at all the litter!" thinking it is styrofoam. It's bones.

Dear Atravelynn. One camera and 2 pairs of Ex Officio undies!! Thank you for your advice. I'm at work and it just so happens that I bought a keychain flashlight over lunch! Must have been ESP. Question: "Reinforce your buttons." Is that because of the bouncy traveling or the chance that I might possibly overeat?

Dear Atravelynn. One camera and 2 pairs of Ex Officio undies!! Thank you for your advice. I'm at work and it just so happens that I bought a keychain flashlight over lunch! Must have been ESP. Question: "Reinforce your buttons." Is that because of the bouncy traveling or the chance that I might possibly overeat?

Bouncy reminds me of a sports bra, bring one.

Those are good projections on what might happen to the buttons. Even without bumpy roads or several-course meals, it's just a good idea to help reduce problems. A little sewing kit--the kind that is just a cardboard with thead wrapped around and some needles stuck in is always wise too.

If you can possibly include a backup camera, even one way below your main one, it is a good idea, just in case. My camera or my travel mate's camera have died on a trip two times. A backup saved the day.

The keychain flashlight is amazing. You might already know this, but in Africa they call them torches.

Have a wonderful trip!

One of my favorite threads ever!!

A good reason to reinforce buttons, is that you will have your laundry done while in camp, multiple times. "They" (clothing manufacturers) do not sew buttons on like they used to. After 3 or 4 washings, it is easy for one to fall off. It is usually the one that hits you right where you most want a button.

"They" don't make shoes or socks like they used to either. But that's another thread. Don't want to ruin christabir's favorite with quality rants.

Along with a backup camera, bring at least 2 batteries. I never take under 3 and bring 2 chargers and 2 adapters. It seems excessive but if your charger or adapter breaks or gets lost or taken from a "group charging" area, then what? A spare spares you from potential despair.

A few years back I actually did have a battery charger burn up. Seems the camps electical generator system went screwing/bounced and my charger didn't like that and turned to smoke!! Course also took the battery with it!!

Camera kit and spares. My three different cameras require three different battery design and chargers. Bummer. My camera kit of spares of everything plus backup card drives plus tools plus cleaning kit plus etc weighs almost as much as the cameras. More bummer . I think the old days with 40 rolls of 35mm film my total kit was smaller/lighter!!!

regards - tom
ps - and no, I do not even take a laptop PC or such