Gauteng, South Africa: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]
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Ready to pack for Gauteng, South Africa? If you're planning to go to Gauteng, I have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Gauteng
- Important essentials for Gauteng
- Activities for Gauteng
- Gauteng in January: weather and what to pack
- Gauteng in February: weather and what to pack
- Gauteng in March: weather and what to pack
- Gauteng in April: weather and what to pack
- Gauteng in May: weather and what to pack
- Gauteng in June: weather and what to pack
- Gauteng in July: weather and what to pack
- Gauteng in August: weather and what to pack
- Gauteng in September: weather and what to pack
- Gauteng in October: weather and what to pack
- Gauteng in November: weather and what to pack
- Gauteng in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to Gauteng, South Africa
Based on the climate and weather in Gauteng, South Africa, the best time to go is September. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for Gauteng, South Africa
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Gauteng, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for Gauteng, South Africa by month
January
January in Gauteng is warm and somewhat stormy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Bug repellent
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Breathable footwear or sandals
Sunscreen lotion
Sandals
Extra socks
Light skirts
Short pants or heavy shorts
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
Rain pants
These will be a lifesaver in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We recommend:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good kit.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For additional peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Room protection door lock
If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.
Luggage protection
Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Emergency phone
For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Gauteng may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. It's important that you choose the correct type. A lot of adapters currently available are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck support pillow
A great choice is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
February
If you are traveling to Gauteng in February, you will notice that it is warm. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 70s F (mid 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Bug repellent
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Sunscreen lotion
Sandals
Breathable footwear or sandals
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Short pants or heavy shorts
Light skirts
Extra socks
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
Rain pants
These can be essential in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things don't get wet. We recommend:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good option.
Safety + Security
Emergency phone
For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Gauteng may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Luggage protection
Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Room protection door lock
If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.
Anti-theft backpack
For added peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel neck pillow
What we like is this one
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Ensure that you choose the right kind. A lot of adapters currently sold are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most locations.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
March
March in Gauteng is warm. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s C) to low 70s F (low 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunscreen lotion
Sandals
Short pants or heavy shorts
Bug repellent
Light skirts
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Breathable footwear or sandals
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Extra socks
A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
These will be a lifesaver in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things don't get wet. We suggest:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly option.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For added protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Emergency phone
For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Gauteng may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
Luggage protection
Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.
Room protection door lock
If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.
Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel pillow
A good option is this one
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Be sure to get the necessary type. Many adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.
April
If you are traveling to Gauteng in April, you will notice that it is balmy. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Daytime temperatures are in the low 60s F (low 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light and heavy skirts
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Extra socks
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Light jacket or fleece
Pants or jeans
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
Rain pants
These can be vital in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things don't get wet. We recommend:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great option.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For added peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Emergency phone
For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Gauteng may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
Room protection door lock
If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.
Luggage protection
Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.
Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. It's important that you choose the correct kind. Many adapters on sale are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel pillow
Our favorite is this one
May
May in Gauteng is relatively cool and dry with little rain. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 40s F (single digits C). With the colder weather comes lower humidity, which is in the 30% to 40% range on average.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Light and heavy skirts
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Extra socks
Light jacket or fleece
Pants or jeans
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great option.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Luggage protection
Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Emergency phone
For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Gauteng may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Room protection door lock
If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.
Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck support pillow
A good option is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Make sure to pick the necessary kind. The majority of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most places.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
June
If you go to Gauteng in June, you will notice that it can be chilly. Daytime temperatures are in the low 60s F (mid 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Light and heavy skirts
Extra socks
Light jacket or fleece
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Pants or jeans
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly product.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good choice.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Luggage protection
Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.
Anti-theft backpack
For some more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Emergency phone
For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Gauteng may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Room protection door lock
If going to a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.
Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Be sure to find the right kind. Most adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most places.
July
If you vacation in Gauteng during July, you will probably find that it is chilly. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 60s F (mid 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 40s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 30 and 40% during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Pants or jeans
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Light jacket or fleece
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Light and heavy skirts
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Extra socks
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb value.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly product.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Emergency phone
For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Gauteng may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
Luggage protection
Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Room protection door lock
If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.
Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. It's important that you get the necessary type. Most adapters currently available are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.
Travel neck pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
August
If you visit Gauteng during August, you will probably see that it is mild and very dry. Temperatures tend to hover around the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 40s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 30 and 40% during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Light and heavy skirts
Light jacket or fleece
Extra socks
Pants or jeans
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly option.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Emergency phone
For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Gauteng may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Room protection door lock
If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Luggage protection
Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.
Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Ensure that you choose the right kind. A lot of adapters on sale are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel neck support pillow
Our favorite is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
September
If you are traveling to Gauteng in September, you will notice that it is mild and very dry. Expect it to rain sometimes. Daytime temperatures are in the low 70s F (low 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Short pants or heavy shorts
Extra socks
Sunscreen lotion
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Light skirts
Bug repellent
Sandals
Breathable footwear or sandals
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings stay dry. We recommend:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb choice.
Safety + Security
Room protection door lock
If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.
Emergency phone
For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Gauteng may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
Luggage protection
Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For some more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel pillow
Our favorite is this one
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Ensure that you find the right kind. A lot of adapters for sale now are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most places.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
October
October is a perfect temperature. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains a bit less than half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Light skirts
Extra socks
Short pants or heavy shorts
Sandals
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Bug repellent
Sunscreen lotion
Breathable footwear or sandals
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
These will be essential in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things don't get wet. We recommend:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb one.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly product.
Safety + Security
Luggage protection
Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Room protection door lock
If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Emergency phone
For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Gauteng may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
Anti-theft backpack
For some more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Check that you get the necessary type. A lot of adapters available are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most areas.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck pillow
What we like is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
November
November in Gauteng is a perfect temperature and somewhat stormy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunscreen lotion
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Breathable footwear or sandals
Short pants or heavy shorts
Bug repellent
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Light skirts
Sandals
Extra socks
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
Rain pants
These are vital in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We recommend:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great option.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Emergency phone
For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Gauteng may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Luggage protection
Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.
Anti-theft backpack
For some more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Room protection door lock
If going to a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.
Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Make sure to find the necessary type. Many adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most locations.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel neck pillow
Our fave is this one
December
In December, Gauteng is a perfect temperature and somewhat stormy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) and a bit less than half of the time jump into the low 80s F (high 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Gauteng, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. In December, humidity reaches as high as 60%.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Bug repellent
Extra socks
Short pants or heavy shorts
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Sandals
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Light skirts
Breathable footwear or sandals
Sunscreen lotion
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
Rain pants
These can be vital in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We suggest:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great kit.
Safety + Security
Room protection door lock
If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.
Emergency phone
For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Gauteng may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For some more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Luggage protection
Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.
Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. It's important that you pick the necessary kind. A lot of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
What to do in Gauteng, South Africa
Gauteng is known as the “place of gold” in South Africa, and is home to the country’s largest city, Johannesburg. It is a province that boasts a rich cultural heritage and a range of fascinating tourist attractions. From gardens and theme parks to museums and wildlife reserves, the province has something for everyone. Here are the top tourist attractions in Gauteng.
1. Apartheid Museum - The Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in South Africa’s history. The museum chronicles the rise and fall of apartheid through its exhibits, including photographs, newspaper clippings, videos, and interactive displays.
2. The Cradle of Humankind - Designated a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Cradle of Humankind is a large and complex network of limestone caves and one of the world’s most important areas for the study of human evolution. The site, located in the northwest of Johannesburg, is home to the Sterkfontein caves, which have yielded some of the world’s oldest and most complete hominid fossils.
3. lion park - If you’re looking to get up close and personal with some of South Africa’s wildlife, a visit to the Lion Park is a must. Located just north of Johannesburg, the park is home to lions, cheetahs, zebras, and other animals. Visitors can choose to take a guided game drive or a wildlife walk to experience the park's many sights and sounds.
4. Pretoria Botanical Gardens - Located in Pretoria, the Botanical Gardens are one of the best places to experience the beauty of South Africa’s flora. The gardens cover 76 hectares and are home to over 15,000 plant species, including some rare and endangered species. Visitors can enjoy walks through the gardens, picnics, and birdwatching.
5. Gold Reef City - For a taste of the past, Gold Reef City is a beautifully restored and recreated mine town that offers visitors the chance to experience life in Johannesburg in the late 19th century. The park includes a theme park, numerous restaurants, and a casino.
Gauteng is a province that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, wildlife, culture, or just want to relax in a beautiful garden, Gauteng has it all. So, pack your bags and get ready for an adventure, South Africa's Gauteng province awaits.
About your travel guide
Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.
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