One month till trip. What should I be doing?
 

Hi all,

I havent written on this forum in awhile. In a nutshell, I tormented you all with questions for my trip to Kenya and Tanzania, booked my trip with Good Earth for September 9th, got diagnosed with thyroid cancer, had my thyroid removed, and was promised by my doctor that I could still go on my trip.

So basically, I have another week at home recuperating and I have lost sight of what I should be doing in my trip planning. Can someone help me refocus? I have an appt next week to get vaccinated, my visa just came for Kenya, my flights are booked and my trip is booked. I still need: 1) a camera 2) a duffle bag or whatever will hold my stuff so I dont have to check luggage, and 3) anything else.

Help me refocus and please send me links to any lists I should be following. :-)

Thanks in advance! Michelle

Hi Michelle - Major congrats on your speedy recovery! You will LOVE your safari...what a wonderful healing celebration!

We just came back from a carry-on safari to Kenya. We're usually never anxious about what we take on a trip, but this time we we became ridiculously concerned about weight/size requirements. This turned out to be a non-issue: We took never saw anyone weighing or measuring luggage anywhere, and we hardly needed any clothes...everyone is in "uniform" during the day, and it's too dark to see what anyone is wearing at night.

For a duffel, I recommend the Eagle Creek medium ES cargo

http://www.rei.com/product/749319

We also brought compact luggage trolleys (from Bed, Bath and Beyond) to use in airports.

http://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/prod...1&SKU=14682740

You will also need a small day pack, which can be your personal item on the plane. You might also want to pack a fold up zippered tote bag for game drives.

I believe two cameras are essential..one DSLR or P&S with a good zoom, and a tiny one (like a powershot elph) for walking safaris, village visits etc. If you're buying a new P&S, I highly recommend this one:

http://www.amazon.com/Panasonic-DMC-...1410174&sr=8-1

We brought a tiny laptop (an old VAIO) for downloading photos, but you can pack extra memory cards instead. You will also need lightweight binoculars (see if you can borrow them). I also invested in a Kindle because I'm a big reader and it was fantastic...you can even upload guidebooks (although I wouldn't use it at home).

If your camps do laundry, then you can get away with two safari outfits (layers) and two "evening" outfits (normal clothes). Here's what I brought:

- 2 short-sleeved tees
- 2 long-sleeved tees (one "nicer" one for evenings)
- 1 fleece
- 1 very light fleece (work-out weight)
- 1 light cashmere sweater
- 1 buzz-off khaki shirt
- 1 pair convertible safari pants
- 1 hiking or work out pants (I had both)
- 1 pair capris
- 1 light rain jacket
- 1 pair trail runners hiking sneakers (Merrells)
- 1 flip flops (never wore these)
- 1 pair "dressier" sneakers (lightweight Pumas)
- 4 pairs socks, 2 heavy, 2 light
- underwear (I always pack a lot)
- 1 pair pajamas
- 1 pair jeans
- 1 pashmina, 2 cotton scarves
- hat
- good sunglasses, and possibly an extra pair

Other items: moneybelt, toiletry kit, neosporin, band aids, alleve, advil, pepto bismol, immodium, bonine, benedryl cream, antibiotics (Cipro, Z-pack), anticeptic towelettes, deet towelettes, skin-so-soft or citronella, purell, lip balm (of these, we only used the alleve, purell and lip balm.) You'll also need US cash - $1s, $5s, $20s, envelopes for tips, small notebook.

Gifts for guides: We brought Obama floaty pens...a HUGE hit.

There is plenty of shampoo everywhere, but no conditioner, which you will really need because your hair will be blowing around the entire time. So I would pack 3-4 hotel size bottles of conditioner and forget the shampoo.

I will be posting my trip report soon, and am happy to answer questions. But, seriously, there is no reason to stress about what you pack.

just realized I forgot to include another essential item: a small magnalite flashlight

Wow! Michelle, congratulations on having that bad stuff behind you so you can get back to the fun of planning your trip.

As crosscheck said, what a great way to celebrate the healing of your body, mind and spirit!

Thanks for asking this question. I will be leaving next week for Kenya, and although there have been many threads that have answered similar questions, it's always nice to have fresh feedback from recent travelers (thanks crosscheck)!

I, too purchased the camera listed above after reading through all the feedback on this site and looking at the sample pictures online. It hasn't arrived yet, but I think it should in the next 1-2 days. Wish I had bought it sooner so I had time to play with it before the trip but oh well--it is what it is. So that's my piece of advice---get your camera soon-- Sept 9 will be here before you know it!!!

Happy travels to you, and best wishes for good health.

Congratulation on successfully battling off the dreadful disease, Michelle! I must say I really admire your courage. You’ve just had a major medical procedure and you’re already planning a Safari. Here’s my response to your questions:

1. You haven’t mentioned if you want a point and shoot or an SLR, but I’ve had some great results with my Canon digital camera. You can try the same brand. You might also want to carry a video camera to capture some interesting moments.

2. I would recommend this very rugged wheeled upright (http://www.briggs-riley.com/category...-Upright_BU119 ) from Briggs & Riley. This will be easier to transport than a duffle since it has wheels. You may also need a daypack/small backpack for your day trips.

3. Crosscheck has pretty much covered everything else. All I can say is enjoy your trip to the maximum and forget everything that’s happened. If you’re going alone, make some new friends on the way. Traveling is a great way to meet interesting people and forge lifelong bonds.

Crosscheck; Great list; thanks and can't wait for the report. I also leave in 4 wks, but after all Michelle's been through, I am more excited for her than me!

Could you tell me where you got the Obama pens; I have a few friends that need them and I also wouldn't mind taking a few as gifts.

Thanks, and good luck Michelle on your trip and with continuing excellent health! Maybe we will pass one another in the Mara!

MoneyB

All the very best to those about to travel. Am very jealous have come back now 6 weeks, I need to go back.
One extra item, if room, is something for the local bush school(s). I took flattened footballs each with a pump. Easier to pack ideas would be a full size flatpacked set of colouring pens/pencils/crayons. Anything that the local village school might need AND (like the Obama pens) not too serious.

Happy to hear your recovery is going well and I envy you going on safari soon.

Other things not mentioned yet that I like to take are copies of - my passport, visa, plane tickets, any other important receipts, info, phone numbers. Keeping those separate from the real ones for just-in-case.

If you're going to be using credit or debit cards, call those banks and tell them when you're going. Otherwise, they may deny payment when a very strange country charge comes in from you.

I like to have emergency medical evacuation insurance. Also, extra back-up medication in case some gets lost. When I'm traveling alone I write up emergency contact/medical/insurance information that I leave with the camp manager.

The Pansonic FZ35 mentioned twice above is a great safari camera and it will also do videos. You need to get it going ASAP if you're going to order like via Amazon. Some folks also like binoculars.

That's what comes to mind now. You can start counting down the days!!!

regards - tom

Great suggestions, Tom.

I ordered the Obama pens from http://www.xenosgift.com/index.php?productID=943

We also brought Silly Bandz for the school visit...not as useful as soccer balls, but very packable and the kids loved them. What they really need is cash, of course. The headmaster seemed very touched by our donation.

I omitted sunscreen from my list. In July, one travel size bottle per person was plenty.

I think I had one more tee shirt than I listed - a 3/4 sleeve. And I must disclose that I took two other tops in forbidden colors (black and navy), which I intended to use just in Nairobi and London and on the plane, but I ended up wearing them pretty often at night.

Thanks for the link to the pens - got my order in!
I am still looking for carry-on kids' gifts and though I have been told cash is best, I still want something for the kids to see them smile.

Looking forward to your trip report Crosscheck, hint hint....:)

MB

Thanks for the suggestion of the pens since everywhere I go people love Obama and it's the first thing they mention upon hearing that we're Americans. Amazon also has some Obama pens, not quite as colorful, but a bit less expensive.

Enjoy every minute of your trip!

Thanks for the list crosscheck, I'm going to copy it.

As for cameras, I highly recommend a DSLR. I used to have an Olympus P&S similar to that Panasonic, but nothing can compare with the speed, control, and especially quality of a DSLR.

I have read many reviews and have many friends with DSLR's and I would recommend that you get either a Nikon or Canon. Both companies offer DSLR's in a wide range of prices and their selection of lenses are unrivaled.

No one has mentioned a wash cloth or a small towel (REI and probably other outfitters have compact, absorbent ones). Also, what about cash? You'll need to go to the bank and drive the clerk crazy insisting on clean, unmarked, undog-eared $20s; also, $100s issued since 2000. Don't forget the money belt! It is my opinion that those that can be concealed under clothing are to be preferred to others. Speaking from experience, some combination locks that you can leave on your luggage when you're away from your hotel or tent are useful. ZZ

Wash cloths? Absolutely! I always have these for trips anywhere though more and more properties are now providing these... still take my own. As they're the old nasty ones, usually leave them behind.

As to currency, if USD, shouldn't be older than 5/years, so dated from 2005 (not 2000). In Kenya, USD$100s are often declined and they feel these may be counterfeit, whereas in Tanzania, these often get a better exchange rate. Go figure???

I don't bother with key or combo locks, rather use cable ties to keep bags secure (as secure as any can be... if someone wants something, easy for them to just cut thru or pick-up and be on their way). If using cable ties, remember nail clipper (without the nail file attachment) in the side pocket of duffle or in your carryon.

"If using cable ties, remember nail clipper (without the nail file attachment)"

Interesting you say "without nail file". Maybe that is why at JNB security took away mine, it had the file? I've never understood why, except, JNB security seems to be generally 10 times tougher than our TSA. Of course then you get on the plane and the meal utensils are steel knife an fork!!!

regards - tom

Spot on tom... the utensils are real :) and they worry about the file on the nail clippers. Why/what the TSA and other country's security do/require is more than my mind can fathom!

My doc sent me to an Infectious Disease Specialist, apparently his nurse needed practice administering vaccines

i could have used a bottle of saline spray for my nose, since it was so dry. something to consider if you easily get bloody noses...

Did not read the other responses so sorry for repeats.

Glad to know you are recovering well!

#1 GET THE CAMERA. Then become very comfortable with it by taking lots of shots. Don't recall if you've stated a preference yet for a camera but a high end 12x Optical Zoom or better, Image Stabilization Point-and-Shoot should be ample and provide you with outstanding photos. I am happy with my 12x and 15x P&S. 20X and higher are common now for around $400, even less.

If you have not used a camera body with interchangeable lenses, you don't need to start now. But do not just order a camera online. Try some out in person to find one that works for you.

If you are concerned about the quality of a good Point and Shoot vs a DSLR, ask posters for links to their albums of shots taken with P&S cameras.

One month out is perfect timing for considering a purchase of a pair or two of fast drying underpants if you don't already have some. Even the places that do laundry often state "No Smalls" meaning no undies. I've even seen some places exclude women's undies in particular.

So if you are washing out your own, it is nice if they are the kind that dry in about 8 hours. If you plan ahead and wash on your 2 or 3 night stays, the dry atmosphere in East Africa at the time you are going will allow them to dry in your room/tent easily. But who wants to be preoccupied with the timing of underwear washing whilst on safari?!

I bought mine from Tilley's, the famous hat people, who obviously have expanded their line to other regions. But you can get fast driers lots of places. I'd suggest wearing them a couple of times in advance to make sure the material used is agreeable. It differs from what you might be accustomed to.

A month gives you lots of time to check that your buttons on the clothes you'll be taking are all on tight. A little sewing kit can help if the buttons fall off, but prevention is a better bet.

Let your credit card companies know your dates of travel so they don't cancel your card after getting a charge from Africa.

Crisp, fresh new bills are appreciated and sometimes demanded, and it might take a couple of trips to your bank to get them. You have enough time for that.

How wonderful your attention can be turned to these details instead of fighting for your health!

Speaking of women's "smalls" - great option are those made of paper, available at 5/$5. Hard to find decent cloth panties for less than $5/pair. These are Bikini style. Wear once, toss them.

atravelynn. As a matter of rather vague interest and more out of frivolity, do Tilley produce their smalls in the same material as their hats?
If so, OUCH.

My heart skipped a beat when I read your title, because we are also leaving soon too! (Sept 6) And I think thyroid cancer is one of the easiest to be rid of because it's a self-contained gland (I think & hope) so you have lots and lots of reasons to feel very excited and very happy!

You didn't say where in Africa you are going. Tanzania? Have you gotten the YF already? Mosquito repellent? (With lots of DEET).

I'm surprised atravelynn didn't mention lip balm. We're taking doubles because of her suggestion.

Gosh there's so much to think about! I'm going to make the same post in a couple of days...when I get the time that is.

I'll be meeting up with moneyburns in Masai Mara. So excited to be meeting her!

Have a great, great safari! Maybe we'll cross paths?

FrankS- I have to admit I got the idea our infectious disease MD also had an RN that needed practice with injections. I really didn't expect to get so many!

Any one on this forum have trouble with Malarone? Specifically hallucinations?? An MD I work with and another friend of mine said they did and wound up getting different pills (in Kenya) that their guide suggested. Their guide told them they hear about side effects quite often.

21days, 23hours,29min and some odd secs before take-off!!

Malarone is supposed to be the most side-effect free drug available. But I think some people who are sensitive to other drugs may have some. We'll be taking Malarone, DEET spray, and treating our clothing with Permethrin.

Cough drops - took two large bags and used them all -- I don't know if it was dusty roads or a cold; malarone was okay for ten days or so -- then I had some GI issues (I was advised to take immodium every day for that) and when I came home some achy muscle/weakness issues (not debilitating, just annoying). I think it is the once a week anti-malarial that has the hallucination problems (can't recall the name).

I like to read and took used mass market paperbacks and left them at the various lodges/camps after I had finished them. I like to think of my books sitting in the small "libraries" at Kirawira and Selous Safari Camp :-)

Malarone is supposed to have the least side-effects if those taking follow the protocol of taking with "dairy" products - mild, cheese, yogurt. Whichever pill, take with food. Lariam is the one known for halucinations or weird dreams. Have taken both and never a problem with either.

Traveling now in "winter" in East Africa, doubt you'll even see a mosquito, so while you should have repellent, no more than 30% Deet required... any more is poison and not something I'd want to breathe in. Nor is there any reason to spray your clothing; it's overkill... and East Africa is not the Amazon!

More important is sun protection against the Equatorial sun regardless what time of year visiting.

Thanks everyone for the info. I want to make sure all the wonderful things we are about to experience will be the real thing and not drug induced!!

Michelle, in regards to the visa you received from Kenya, I was told to get mine on arrival at the NBO airport.How long did it take for you to get one and where exactly did you get it? I leave Oct.1

Thank you,Max

Lip balm of course, Tinydancer.
DRJO, I am just imagining boat canvas undies, ha ha, ouch ouch. Wouldn't want to hike to the gorillas in those things.

Michelle, something else to consider--circulation hosiery. As I recall, the sizes are not S M L. Instead you have to measure things like knee to ankle distance and calf circumference.

Maxine, I would continue with your plan to get the visa upon arrival rather than mail your passport to the Kenyan Embassy in NYC or DC. Unless you live near a Kenyan embassy, you mail it. There is no problem getting the visa upon arrival and that way you don't part with your passport. I get mine on arrival, no problem.

thank you, will get visa at NBO

Hi all, thanks for all this info! Getting the visa took a week, Maxine19147. It was simple. I am getting in at night and was told you have to wait on an additional line and figured whatever hassle I could deal with prior to the flight, I would... since I am going to be exhausted. Atravelynn, I did get the circulation hosiery! Thanks for the tip! This forum rocks!!!!

So funny, just called the Obama floaty pen shop realizing it is just blocks from my home here in Philly. The owner cannot get over the amount of orders for these pens. I had to explain about this site. She is an adorable woman from Taiwan who is so thrilled with the increase in business!! She mentioned she also has a Obama coin... ;)

mkdude -

When you deplane in NBO, and arrive at Immigration there is only one line - either you have the Visa and stand on that one, or you have to purchase a Visa and stand on that one. So no, you do not wait on two lines. Both can be as long or short as the other.

Regardless which, you still have to wait for your luggage to come off the plane and this can take some time, so might as well have something to do... like buying y our Visa. I've never waited more than 10-15/min, often on the lower end. Just have application completed, hand over with passport and $$$ (no photos required) and you get your Visa... simple.

Thanks Sandi! Well, I am carrying my luggage and not checking it, so I wont have to wait... but good to know for next time that it wasnt a time saver! Still, I got it done... and its one less thing to worry about and have money for. Damn that Tanzania visa is pricey!!!

How much are these visas??

I think Tanzania is $100 and Kenya is $25? Cant remember exactly but I am pretty sure thats what it is.

In reading about the crisp new bills..can you advise approximately just how much cash should I have on me for an 8 day safari?

Hi,
What a great trip you will have! We are leaving on 9/11 for Zimbabwe and Botswana and struggled with luggage issues because of the small planes we will use. After trying several bags(prepacking) at home, we chose the eBags Mother Lode TLS Weekender Convertible at http://www.ebags.com It is now on sale for $50. We like that it can be a backpack (we have 5 hours in Frankfurt) or a carry-on. I am amazed at how much it holds, and, it is very well made.
Good luck and have fun!

Haha - I should be getting a kickback on those Obama pens! I wished I had bought twice as many. Maxine, you will need cash for tips for guides and souvenirs bought from the Masai (not shops). What is your itinerary?

Tanzania Visa - for US passport holders is USD$100 (good for 1/yr)... so you can return a few times till it expires. Most other countries is USD$50.

Kenya Visa - USD$25 till 31st Dec '10; thereafter back to USD$50. With this you can transit thru Kenya to Tanzania and back; even to Uganda and Rwanda.

Currency - USD do NOT have to be freshly minted (in your basement :) ), but should be in good condition, no older than 5/yrs so dated 2005 forward, with the new larger faces and tri-color green $20s, shades-of-tan $10s, purple 5 on rear of $5s. The $1s are still the $1s. No folds, tears, taped, stapled or recently washed in your jeans.

You can use USD most everywhere, but it's a good idea to obtain a small amount of local KSH (especially if spending anytime in Nairobi where they prefer their own currency most places) or TSH for roadside souvenirs. Local currency can be obtained at ATMs at Nairobi airport on arrival; current exchange is 70-80Ksh/USD$1. There are ATMs in/around Arusha and towns along the road to Ngorongoro; current exchange is about 1200-1300Tsh/USD$1. Personally, I've never exchanged USD to Tsh, only about $100 to Ksh.

Credit cards are accepted many places, but you should check before paying whether the establishment assesses a fee for use; can be 5% or higher. This is rare at restaurants or large shops, but lodges/camps often do. This, of course, in addition to the 3% foreign currency exchange fee many US credit cards assess, unless you have Cap 1 or another that doesn't.

Figure about $20-25/day towards tips (always at your discretion for service provided) - Guide $7-10/person; tracker (if you have) $3-5; lodge/camp staff (porters, housekeeping, waiters,chefs) $5-8; misc. $5 (if someone goes out of their way).