How to Pack for a Trip to Zambia?

From one of the world's largest waterfalls to wildlife safaris and treks through untouched African jungle, Zambia is a bucket of outdoor adventures waiting to happen. So just how should you pack for a trip to such a destination? Read on to find out! Also, remember that just because Zambia is a tropical country, it doesn't mean that you don't need warmer articles of clothing, or at least more of it, to stay warm at certain times.

Step One – Pack Clothes That Will Keep you Warm

This tip might be counterintuitive, seeing as Zambia's climate is considered to be tropical. However, it can get pretty chilly outdoors at certain times of the year. For example, if you plan on making an excursion to see Victoria Falls during months such as April, May, June, July, or August, it can get quite cold. So, pack clothes that can keep you warm such as jackets, jeans, and sweaters, and make sure to dress in layers. This way you can adjust as needed to warmer or cooler weather while you're outside.

Victoria Falls is one of the largest waterfalls on the planet and is among the country's most popular attractions. If you plan on spending a few days exploring the waterfall and local area, there are several accommodation options nearby, due to the popularity of these attractions. If you want to enjoy the sound and views of the waterfall from your accommodation, you can check yourself into a premier room at one of the international hotel chain-owned options in the area such as the Royal Livingstone Hotel by Anantara.

Step Two – Swimwear

While Zambia is a land-locked country (which means that it's surrounded on all sides by land that belongs to other countries) and therefore offers no direct beach or ocean access, that doesn't mean that you should forgo packing your bikinis and swimming trunks. Many of the local resorts have gorgeous pools, and you're going to want to be able to take advantage of them to cool off from the heat after a wildlife safari, for example. It's also useful to have swimming gear with you in case you decided to take a dip in a river.

Step Three – Flip-flops, Walking Shoes, and Hiking Boots

Important footwear can really make a difference in your day-to-day comfort levels while you're on vacation. And this is no different in Zambia. While there are no beaches, pack a pair of flip-flops so that you can wear them comfortably inside your place of accommodation during the day, without having to bother putting on more complicated footwear. But you'll also need a good pair of trainers or walking shoes since you'll be spending a lot of time exploring the outdoors. To this end, a good pair of hiking boots would come in handy as well – since you're likely to do a lot of trekking in the jungle.

Step Four – A Waterproof Jacket

Being a tropical country, Zambia sees a lot of rainfall throughout the year. And since you're likely to be spending a lot, if not most of your time exploring the outdoors during a Zambian vacation, make sure to pack waterproof clothing such as a waterproof jacket, which can keep you dry if it begins to pour. Tropical rain showers and thunderstorms can be quite potent, nothing like the light drizzles you might be more used to if you live in a place such as England.

Step Five – Insect Repellents

Nothing much to say here, except that if you're planning on hiking in the forests of Africa, you'd better be prepared to have something to stave off the bugs!