South Africa, South Africa: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]
Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.
Ready to pack for South Africa, South Africa? If you're planning to go to South Africa, this article contains some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to South Africa
- Important essentials for South Africa
- Activities for South Africa
- South Africa in January: weather and what to pack
- South Africa in February: weather and what to pack
- South Africa in March: weather and what to pack
- South Africa in April: weather and what to pack
- South Africa in May: weather and what to pack
- South Africa in June: weather and what to pack
- South Africa in July: weather and what to pack
- South Africa in August: weather and what to pack
- South Africa in September: weather and what to pack
- South Africa in October: weather and what to pack
- South Africa in November: weather and what to pack
- South Africa in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to South Africa, South Africa
Based on the climate and weather in South Africa, South Africa, the best time to go is October. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for South Africa, South Africa
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in South Africa, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for South Africa, South Africa by month
January
January for South Africa is pretty consistently hot. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains regularly.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Waterproof sandals
Loose-fit shorts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and help you stay cool.
Bug repellent
Insulated water bottle
Our choice also cleans dangerous contaminants:
thisSunglasses
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can keep you comfortable and protect you from the sun:
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Skirts
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be a lifesaver in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We like:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
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 South Africa may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Luggage protection
Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing things 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.
Room protection door lock
If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room 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
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Make sure to choose the correct kind. A lot of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.
Travel pillow
What we like is this one
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 excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
February
February here is hot. Temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains regularly.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Loose-fit shorts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and keep you cool.
Sunglasses
Bug repellent
Skirts
Waterproof sandals
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can cool you down quickly and protect you from UV rays:
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice also removes harmful contaminants:
thisTravel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.A rain jacket to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be essential in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We suggest:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly product.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: 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 South Africa 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.
Anti-theft backpack
For additional protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck support pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. It's important that you choose the right kind. Most adapters available are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most countries.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
March
March in South Africa is warm. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains 5-10 days this month.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunscreen lotion
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Short pants or heavy shorts
Breathable footwear or sandals
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Sandals
Light skirts
Bug repellent
Extra socks
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.If you're going to the beach
If you're going to the beach:
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
These are essential in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We suggest:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb one.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly choice.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Room protection door lock
If going to a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Luggage protection
Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this 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 South Africa 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
Travel pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Check that you get the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters currently available are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for 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
April
April for South Africa is balmy. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (high 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains regularly.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Extra socks
Light jacket or fleece
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Pants or jeans
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Light and heavy skirts
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants are vital in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We like:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great value.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly product.
Safety + Security
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, protect your room with a portable door lock.
Anti-theft backpack
For some more peace of mind, 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 South Africa may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
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
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. It's important that you pick the right type. Most adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most places.
Travel pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
May
May here dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost regularly.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light and heavy skirts
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Dresses
You can find some great options here
Extra socks
Light jacket or fleece
Pants or jeans
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent one.
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.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly 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 South Africa may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
Room protection door lock
If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.
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 things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For some more 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
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck support pillow
A good option is this one
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. It's important that you choose the necessary type. Many 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 get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most locations.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
June
June in South Africa is relatively cool. Temperatures average in the high 40s F (single digits C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost about half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light and heavy skirts
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Pants or jeans
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Light jacket or fleece
Extra socks
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb kit.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
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 South Africa 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.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
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, get some added protection with a portable door lock.
Anti-theft backpack
For additional peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Take care to get the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most countries.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges 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 top rated pillow is this one
July
July here is chilly. Temperatures average in the high 40s F (single digits C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost about half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light and heavy skirts
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Pants or jeans
Extra socks
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Light jacket or fleece
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly option.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb value.
Emergency motion sickness relief
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 important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Room protection door lock
If staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection 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 South Africa may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
Anti-theft backpack
For added protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
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
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Take care to get the necessary kind. A lot of adapters available online are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most places.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck pillow
A good option is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
August
August very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the low 50s F (low 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost about half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Extra socks
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Pants or jeans
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Light jacket or fleece
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Light and heavy skirts
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good one.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For added protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
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 South Africa 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.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
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
Travel neck pillow
A good option is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. It's important that you find the correct kind. Most adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most places.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
September
September here dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (mid 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost once in a while.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Light and heavy skirts
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Pants or jeans
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Extra socks
Light jacket or fleece
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb one.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly product.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit more peace of mind, 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 South Africa 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 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 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
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Check that you find the correct kind. A lot of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
October
If you go to South Africa in October, you will notice that it is a perfect temperature. Expect it to rain once in a while. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 60s F (high 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunscreen lotion
Short pants or heavy shorts
Sandals
Breathable footwear or sandals
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Light skirts
Bug repellent
Extra socks
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.If you're going to the beach
If you're going to the beach:
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be essential in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases stay dry. We like:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly product.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Luggage protection
Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.
Room protection door lock
If going to a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection 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 South Africa 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 surcharges with this
Travel neck support pillow
Our favorite is this one
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. It's important that you pick the correct kind. A lot of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most areas.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
November
November for South Africa is a perfect temperature. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains a bit less than half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Short pants or heavy shorts
Extra socks
Sandals
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Light skirts
Sunscreen lotion
Bug repellent
Breathable footwear or sandals
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.If you're going to the beach
If you're going to the beach:
A rain jacket to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
Rain pants
These can be a lifesaver in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We recommend:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent kit.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly choice.
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 important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Room protection door lock
If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
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 stuff.
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 South Africa 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 large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel neck support pillow
An excellent option 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 careful to choose the necessary kind. Most adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most places.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
December
If you are traveling to South Africa in December, you will notice that it is pretty consistently hot. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 70s F (mid 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunglasses
Loose-fit shorts
Waterproof sandals
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and cool you.
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also removes harmful contaminants:
thisSkirts
Bug repellent
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can make you comfortable and guard against UV rays:
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.A rain coat to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants are essential in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases stay dry. We suggest:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent choice.
Safety + Security
Luggage protection
Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.
Room protection door lock
If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.
Anti-theft backpack
For additional protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Emergency phone
For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in South Africa 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.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck support pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Be sure to pick the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently available are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.
What to do in South Africa, South Africa
South Africa is an incredibly diverse and beautiful country with a unique blend of cultures, landscapes, and wildlife. With its numerous attractions, it is no surprise that South Africa is one of the most popular destinations in the world for tourists. From the bustling city streets to the wildlife-filled national parks, there are plenty of places to explore and things to do in South Africa.
Here are some of the top tourist attractions in South Africa:
1. Table Mountain
Table Mountain is perhaps the most iconic landmark in South Africa and a must-visit destination for tourists. The mountain is located in Cape Town and offers stunning views of the city and surrounding areas. The Table Mountain cableway takes you to the top of the mountain, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city and coastline.
2. Kruger National Park
Kruger National Park is one of the largest game reserves in Africa and is home to the “big five” game animals: African elephant, lion, leopard, rhinoceros, and Cape buffalo. Visitors can enjoy guided safaris and experience close encounters with these majestic animals. Along with the wildlife, the park is also home to many species of birds and plants.
3. Cape Point
Located at the southern tip of the Cape Peninsula, Cape Point is a scenic spot that offers incredible views of the ocean and cliffside landscape. Visitors can hike up to the lighthouse or take a funicular ride to the top. The area also features hiking trails, beaches, and a variety of wildlife, including baboons and ostriches.
4. Robben Island
Robben Island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located near Cape Town. The island was famously used as a notorious prison during the apartheid era to hold political prisoners, including Nelson Mandela. Visitors can take a ferry to the island and tour the prison, learn about the island’s history, and see the cell where Mandela was held for 18 years.
5. The Winelands
South Africa is known for its world-class wines, and the Winelands region is a popular destination for wine tours and tastings. Located just outside of Cape Town, the Winelands offer picturesque scenery, charming towns, and numerous vineyards to discover.
6. Durban Beachfront
Durban Beachfront is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The promenade stretches for miles along the Indian Ocean and features a variety of activities, including swimming, surfing, and sunbathing. The area also has several restaurants and cafes where visitors can enjoy local cuisine.
7. The Garden Route
The Garden Route is a scenic coastal drive that stretches along the southern coast of South Africa. The route offers incredible views of the ocean, forests, and mountains, and features several charming towns and attractions along the way, including the Knysna Heads, Tsitsikamma National Park, and the Cango Caves.
In conclusion, South Africa is a country that offers something for everyone. From its vibrant cities to its breathtaking landscapes and wildlife, South Africa is a must-visit destination for any traveler. Whether you’re interested in adventure activities, history, or simply want to soak up the stunning natural beauty, South Africa has plenty to offer.
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.
Check out our guides for these other locations: Verzasca Valley, Switzerland, Edinburgh, Indiana, United States of America, Sheki Region, Azerbaijan, Västerås, Sweden, Kristianstad, Sweden, Gorakhpur, India, Nakfa, Eritrea, Agreste, Pernambuco, Brazil, Grand Manan Island, New Brunswick, Canada, Annecy, France, and Oneonta, Alabama, United States of America.