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Photo by Leila Brewster Photography

What to Pack for Your Safari

Alexandra Hansen November 21, 2023

Below is a list of suggested items from my amazing partner DM Africa. This list can be used as a guideline while planning your safari Please bear in mind that there are luggage restrictions on most safari flights. Below are general guidelines, although certain lodges may have specific restrictions.

  • SOFT (all-sides) luggage/duffel bags with no rigid sides (flexible bags being made of pliable material such as cotton or canvas)

  • MAXIMUM ¬- Light aircraft travel has a strict luggage restriction of 15 kg per person including hand luggage, depending on your destination.

  • MAXIMUM hand luggage is 5kg/11lbs (1 piece allowed);

  • NOTE: Private Charter flights will give you a more generous luggage allowance, as well as a direct flight routing.


WHAT TO BRING

Your safari suitcase, packed properly, will ensure that you have everything you need for the ultimate African bush experience. Cotton clothing in neutral colors is recommended for all game drives and bush walks. It is best to avoid white clothing and dark colors for bush activities, as they tend to attract certain bugs.

For a 12 night stay I packed 3 pairs of pants, 1 pair of shorts, 3 button downs, 1 TShirt, 2 Tank Tops, 1 sweater, and 2 jackets. There can be pretty large temperature swings so you want to be able to layer. The safari lodges will do laundry for you and they typically have a same day turnaround.

NOTE: Bright colors and white are not advised whilst on safari. Camouflage clothing is also not recommended (It is illegal to wear camouflage in Africa).

 CLOTHING

·       Sun hat/bush hat.

·       Headscarf/bandana – particularly for dusty dry regions.

·       Polo-shirts and/or T-shirts – preferably with a sleeve to protect your shoulders from the sun.

·       Long-sleeved cotton shirts.

·       Shorts and/or skirts – really short skirts are not practical for getting in and out of game drive vehicles.

·       Long trousers/slacks.

·       Pajamas – lightweight for summer and warm/thermal for winter.

·       Underwear – on game drives the roads can be bumpy and uneven so a suitable sports bra may be required.

·       Socks – thermal options are recommended for the winter months only

·       Good, closed walking shoes (running/tennis shoes are fine).

·       Sandals – preferably low heeled or flat if you are going on safari.

·       Swimming costume.

·       Lightweight jersey or fleece in summer months.

·       Light rain gear or jacket for summer months.

·       Warm jersey or fleece plus anorak or parka in winter months.

·       Additionally, a scarf, gloves and beanies/woollen hats for the colder winter months.

·       Good walking shoes/boots for walking safaris and/or hikes.

·       Quality walking socks for walking safaris and/or hikes.

·       You may prefer to bring some ‘buff wear’ multipurpose head gear, can quickly be repurposed as a headband, face protector or sweatband during the hike.

EQUIPMENT/OTHER

·       Good quality sunglasses, UV protected, preferably polarized. Tinted fashion glasses are not good in strong light. If you wear contact lenses, we recommend that you bring along a pair of glasses in case you get irritation from the dust.

·       Flashlight (the lodges will also provide you with a flashlight in your accommodation).

·       Bird guidebook if you are a keen birder. The driver-guides will typically also have these in their vehicle.

·       Personal toiletries (the basic amenities are supplied by most establishments).

·       Malaria tablets (if applicable).

·       Antihistamine tablets if you suffer from any allergies.

·       Anti-nausea tablets if you suffer from motion sickness.

·       Moisturizing cream and suntan lotion – SPF 30 or higher recommended.

·       After sun lotion.

·       lip balm.

·       Insect repellent for body application e.g., Tabard, Rid, Jungle Juice, etc. (mosquito repellent is typically provided for guests, but you are welcome to bring along your favourite brand).

·       Basic medical kit (aspirins, plasters, Imodium, antiseptic cream and antihistamine cream etc.).

·       Tissues/Wet Wipes.

·       Visas, tickets, passports, money, credit cards, insurance details etc.

·       Camera equipment including spare batteries, chargers, film, memory cards, memory sticks, lenses etc.

·       Waterproof/dustproof bag or cover for your camera.

·       Electronic/plug adaptors;

·       Kenya, Uganda & Tanzania uses type D & G plugs – G will be found in all of your accommodation, this the UK 3 pin standard.

·       Rwanda uses type C & J plugs.

·       The required adaptor can be found by using the following link: https://whatplug.info/

·       BINOCULARS – we highly recommended that you bring your own pair for viewing both wildlife and birds. 8x40 and 10x42 are the recommended general purpose binocular specifications.

·       Phone/Tablet chargers.

·       Please note that many of the lodges are located in remote areas and therefore guests should remember to bring an extra pair of correction glasses (if required), contact lens solution and an extra set of contact lenses (if required) as well as a sufficient supply of any prescription medication.

 

LAUNDRY

·       Most lodges provide a 24-hour laundry service, enabling you to manage the amount of clothing you bring accordingly.

Photo by Leila Brewster Photography

What to Pack for Your Safari Part 2: Women's Clothing & Shoes

Alexandra Hansen November 21, 2023

Safari Packing Recommendations: Women’s Clothing & Shoes

For a 12 night stay I packed 3 pairs of pants, 1 pair of shorts, 3 button downs, 1 TShirt, 2 Tank Tops, 1 sweater, and 2 jackets. There can be pretty large temperature swings so you want to be able to layer. The luxury safari lodges will do laundry for you and they typically have a same day turnaround. I took my blundstone boots and they were incredibly comfortable.

Photo by Leila Brewster Photography

What to Pack for Your Safari Part 3: Men's Clothing & Shoes

Alexandra Hansen November 21, 2023

Safari Packing Recommendations: Men’s Clothing & Shoes

Photo by Leila Brewster Photography

What to Pack for Your Safari Part 4: Luggage & Misc. Items

Alexandra Hansen November 21, 2023

Safari Packing List: Luggage & Misc. Items

I took 2 Patagonia Black Hole duffle bags (a 45L and a 60L). These bags are incredibly durable and are made to last (my dad still has his from the 80s). I included some of the options with the wheels since they are much easier to take through the airport with you.

 
Tags Safari, Safari packing list, What to bring on safari
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The Best Luxury Hotels & Resorts in the United States: Part 1

It’s easy to forget all the amazing luxury resorts that are right in our own backyard. That is why I am going through some of my very favorite splurge-worthy properties in America. Whether you are looking for a honeymoon destination or a getaway for your entire family- you are sure to find a property that fits the bill. The best part? No passport required.

The Best Luxury Hotels and Resorts in the United States

Alexandra Hansen December 27, 2019

Alexandra Stockton reveals her picks for the top luxury hotels and resorts in America.

Read More
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Advice for Newly Engaged Couples

Alexandra Hansen December 27, 2018

Cheers to all the newly engaged couples! Before I started my travel business I planned weddings, so I love seeing all of the proposal photos after the holidays and love working with couples to plan their honeymoons, destination weddings, etc. It’s such an exciting time in life, but I realize it can also be stressful and emotional and expensive...Try your hardest to enjoy every minute of the process. Here is some advice for newly engaged couples.

1. Celebrate

Take some time to celebrate this new season of life! Plan a date at your favorite restaurant or get away for a couple nights. Refrain from discussing wedding plans and have fun!

2. Hire Professionals!

I cannot stress this enough. It will make the process so much smoother and allow you to relax on the day of your wedding. Wedding planners, photographers, travel agents, florists, videographers, stationary companies- these people are experts and help eliminate stress. Your sister’s best friend might have beautiful photos on her Instagram but that doesn’t mean you should hire her to take photos at your wedding. The photos are all you have after your big day and you will cherish them! If you are looking for a wedding planner/photographer/etc.- feel free to send me a message by dm or email. I would be more than happy to share recommendations!

3. Remember to Take Care of Your Guests

It is easy to get caught up and develop a “Me! Me! Me!” mindset. Remind yourself that your guests are spending money on gifts, travel, hotels, etc. You’ll want to show your gratitude by making them feel welcome and appreciated.

4. Don’t Be Too Trendy

I know it’s tempting, but you want to look back and like your wedding photos right?! Stay true to yourself! Think about all the cringe-worthy photos you’ve seen of weddings from the past (remember those matching mauve bridesmaids dresses from your aunt’s wedding in the 80s...).

5. Keep It All in Perspective

You are getting to marry the love of your life! You are making memories!  There is no better feeling than getting married and having all of the people you love in one place! While you are engaged- wake up every morning and write down 3 things you are grateful for. This will help you stay focused on what is important.

6. Stay Focused on Each Other During Your Wedding Weekend

You’ll be pulled in every direction and everyone wants a bit of your time.  Never be rude, but you want to make sure that you have memories with your spouse. Dance! Let loose! Be in love! You’ll regret missing these moments to have a 30 minute chat with your Great Aunt about her Alaskan cruise.

7. Remember to Be Kind

Be kind to your fiance. Be kind to your family. Be kind to your bridal party. Be kind to yourself. Be kind to your wedding vendors!

8. Don’t Sweat The Small Stuff

Shit happens. Don’t let it ruin this experience. Trust me, nobody will notice that the ribbon tying your program together is ecru instead of taupe.

9. Stay Away from DIY and Pinterest Projects

Trust me when I say this is not the time to start 193739 DIY projects.  Even if you are great at crafting this is added stress and you and your family/friends don’t need to be running around decorating during your wedding weekend- you need to be present. If you are doing DIY projects- do them several months in advance and pass them off to your wedding planner/someone at your venue to set-up on the day of. If you aren’t great at crafts but are wanting to save money consider this equation: cost of DIY project gone wrong + cost of hiring a professional to do the project > cost of hiring a professional to do the project.

10. Get Things Tailored

Whether it is your rehearsal dinner outfit, your wedding dress, your tux, etc.- it ALWAYS looks better when it is tailored to your body. Grooms- buy your suit/tux instead of renting one so you can have it tailored. You don’t want to look like you have borrowed your dad’s old clothes. You will be in lots of pictures and you want to make sure you look your best!

Happy planning!

Alex

Tags wedding planning, engaged, engagement, advice for couples, how to enjoy planning a wedding, stress free wedding, wedding, bride, groom, honeymoon, wedding photographer, wedding planner
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Why Travel is More Important Than Ever Before

Alexandra Hansen October 27, 2018

America has become extremely divided over the last several years. You can’t log-on to Facebook or Twitter without noticing it. Tensions are high. People are scared. Families are divided on their political leanings and with Thanksgiving right around the corner I can’t help but think about the awkward conversations that will be happening around the dinner table (I hope that’s not the case at your house).

I know my Facebook has been flooded with articles and memes that highlight racism, sexism, and are extremely polarizing. I would be lying if I said it didn’t worry me. It feels like hate & rage have replaced civility and respect. Can we every get back to how things were? Better yet- do you want things to go back to how they were or do we want to create a world that is more accepting, kind, and tolerant?

I keep coming back to Mark Twain’s quote about travel.

“Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness, and many of our people need it sorely on these accounts. Broad, wholesome, charitable views of men and things cannot be acquired by vegetating in one little corner of the earth all one's lifetime.”

Travel is fatal to prejudice.

Travel is fatal to bigotry.

Travel is fatal to narrow-mindedness.

I try and imagine what the world would look like if everyone was able to travel. I have no doubt it would be a more compassionate place because travel has a way of opening your heart. I’ve learned that people- no matter their color, language, or social class- all enjoy sharing a meal, a smile, or a dance. I’ve learned that you cannot judge a country by what you see on the news.

Instead of shutting each other out and letting fear control us- why don’t we get out and explore this beautiful world? Let’s celebrate each other’s differences. Let’s be open to knowledge and have a willingness to change. The more informed we become- the more powerful we are against the people who want to use fear to control us.

Whether you are staying at luxury hotels or in a hostel- I am happy and encouraged to see you getting out and exploring the world. Travel has changed my life, and I am honored to have the opportunity to help people get out and experience different cultures.

Alex

In travel Tags travel, politics, world travel, mark twain, luxury travel, American Politics, Alexandra Stockton Travel

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