Essential Packing Guide

Pack smart for your Kenyan safari and coastal adventure.

Packing correctly can significantly enhance your safari experience, especially when traveling by light aircraft where luggage restrictions apply. This guide will help you pack efficiently for comfort, safety, and enjoyment during your Mombasa Air Safari journey.

Luggage Essentials

Soft-sided duffel bags or rucksacks are MANDATORY for light aircraft flights. (Max 15kg including hand luggage on scheduled flights).
Hard-shell suitcases are generally not suitable and may be refused or incur extra charges.
A small daypack for daily essentials (camera, water, sunscreen, binoculars).

View Full Baggage Policy

Clothing

Lightweight, neutral-colored clothing (khaki, green, brown, beige) for game drives.
Long-sleeved shirts and trousers for sun and insect protection (especially evenings).
T-shirts and shorts for warmer daytime wear or at lodges.
A warm fleece or jacket for cool early mornings and evenings.
A lightweight, waterproof and windproof jacket.
Comfortable, sturdy, closed walking shoes or boots.
Sandals or flip-flops for around the lodge/camp.
Swimwear if your accommodation has a pool or for coastal stays.
Smart-casual wear for evenings at some lodges (optional).
Socks and underwear.

Toiletries & Health

High-SPF sunscreen (SPF 30+).
Effective insect repellent (containing DEET if possible).
Personal prescription medications (carry in hand luggage with a copy of your prescription).
Basic first-aid kit (pain relievers, antiseptic wipes, plasters, motion sickness tablets if needed).
Lip balm with SPF.
Hand sanitizer.
Malaria prophylactics (as prescribed by your doctor).
Any personal toiletries (eco-friendly options preferred where possible).

Documents & Money

Valid passport (with at least 6 months validity and blank pages).
Visa for Kenya (if required - check e-visa system).
Flight tickets and travel itineraries (digital and printed copies).
Travel insurance details (policy number and emergency contacts).
Credit/debit cards (inform your bank of travel dates).
Some cash in USD (for visas, tips, some purchases) and Kenyan Shillings for local expenses.
Copies of important documents (passport, visa, insurance) stored separately.

Electronics & Gadgets

Camera, lenses, extra batteries, and memory cards.
Binoculars (essential for wildlife viewing - 8x40 or 10x42 recommended).
Smartphone and charger.
Universal travel adapter (Kenya uses Type G, UK-style 3-pin plugs).
Portable power bank for charging devices on the go.
Headphones (optional).

Other Useful Items

Wide-brimmed hat for sun protection.
Sunglasses.
Reusable water bottle to reduce plastic waste.
Small torch or headlamp (useful in camps at night).
Books, e-reader, or journal for downtime.
Small, sealable plastic bags for protecting electronics from dust or waterproofing items.

Important: Plastic Bag Ban in Kenya

Kenya has a strict ban on single-use plastic bags. Do not pack any plastic carrier bags in your luggage or carry-on. Duty-free bags from airports must be left on the plane. Reusable fabric bags or Ziploc-style bags for toiletries are generally acceptable. Fines for violations can be severe.

General Packing Tips

Pack light and in layers. Temperatures can vary.
Choose comfortable, practical clothing and footwear.
Roll your clothes to save space and minimize wrinkles.
Leave expensive jewelry and valuables at home.
Check weather forecasts closer to your travel date.

Ready to Pack Your Bags?

With this guide, you're set for a well-prepared Kenyan adventure. If you have specific questions related to packing for your trip with Mombasa Air Safari, don't hesitate to ask.