Packed to capacity with happy smiles across its cargo's faces, they're off to the local market, a typical scenario seen in many African countries, the consequences of which can be disastrous! If only they'd packed correctly…… which is our topic for March. Packing correctly for your safari.
Africa is vast with many national parks and game reserves located in remote wilderness regions. Often, the only way to reach them is with a small aircraft. Typically, aircraft are not airliners. They are relatively small and therefore always have strict luggage and weight restrictions. A variety of safety issues also dictate the luggage restrictions; from the small baggage stowage bays, length of runways to fuel limitations, etc. Your safety always comes first so pilots will simply not fly when the plane is overweight.
| Light aircraft guidelines: |
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Maximum luggage weight is 20kg's per person including carry-on luggage if more than one bag and camera equipment. |
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Check the baggage dimensions permitted by each airline. Airlines vary, however the average dimensions for soft bags should be: 25 cm (10 inches) wide x 30cm (12 inches) high & 62cm (24 inches) long. |
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The color of the bag is irrelevant so long as it's a soft bag (all sides) with no rigid sides or wheels. |
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Passengers weighing over 115 kg's should advise in advance, as an extra seat might have to be costed into the package. This is purely for SAFETY reasons. |
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Excess baggage can be stored at most international airports or with your touring company.
(Please ensure this has been arranged prior to departure) |
Until next month,
Lisa Marsden |
| The science to safari packing: |
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Plan your packing list in advance and don't pack things "just in case". |
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Folding items individually into squares is the worst way to pack – its space inefficient and increases creasing. Instead, roll clothes into sausages placing them on top of each other. |
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Shoes are bulkiest – always wear the biggest / heaviest items of clothing / shoes on the plane. |
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99% of lodges & camps include a laundry service, however it's advisable to bring some washing suds for delicates. |
| Gorilla News: |
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The Bitukura gorilla group in Ruhija are still split in two, but the larger group of eight individuals welcomes a new baby making it 9. |
* All pictures copyright Lisa Marsden
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