Johannesburg, South Africa: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]
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Ready to pack for Johannesburg, South Africa? If you're planning to go to Johannesburg, I have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Johannesburg
- Important essentials for Johannesburg
- Activities for Johannesburg
- Johannesburg in January: weather and what to pack
- Johannesburg in February: weather and what to pack
- Johannesburg in March: weather and what to pack
- Johannesburg in April: weather and what to pack
- Johannesburg in May: weather and what to pack
- Johannesburg in June: weather and what to pack
- Johannesburg in July: weather and what to pack
- Johannesburg in August: weather and what to pack
- Johannesburg in September: weather and what to pack
- Johannesburg in October: weather and what to pack
- Johannesburg in November: weather and what to pack
- Johannesburg in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to Johannesburg, South Africa
Based on the climate and weather in Johannesburg, South Africa, the best time to go is September. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for Johannesburg, South Africa
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Johannesburg, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for Johannesburg, South Africa by month
January
January here is a perfect temperature and somewhat stormy. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Sunscreen lotion
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Light skirts
Extra socks
Breathable footwear or sandals
Short pants or heavy shorts
Bug repellent
Sandals
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
Rain pants
These are a lifesaver in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases stay dry. We like:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent choice.
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.
Safety + Security
Room protection door lock
If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.
Anti-theft backpack
For added 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 Johannesburg 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 find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck pillow
An excellent option 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 large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Check that you choose the necessary kind. Many adapters available online are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.
If you visit the Origins Centre - South African Museum of Rock Art, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Comfy walking shoes
February
If you go to Johannesburg in February, you will notice that it is a perfect temperature. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 70s F (low 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Breathable footwear or sandals
Extra socks
Short pants or heavy shorts
Sandals
Bug repellent
Sunscreen lotion
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Light skirts
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
A rain coat to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
These will be a lifesaver in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases stay dry. We suggest:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good one.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Room protection door lock
If staying 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 Johannesburg may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can find 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
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. Be sure to find the right kind. A lot of adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck support pillow
What we like is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
If you visit the Origins Centre - South African Museum of Rock Art, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Comfy walking shoes
March
If you visit Johannesburg during March, you might see that it is a perfect temperature. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 50s F (mid 10s C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain regularly.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Extra socks
Short pants or heavy shorts
Bug repellent
Sunscreen lotion
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Light skirts
Sandals
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Breathable footwear or sandals
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
These can be vital in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things stay dry. We suggest:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good one.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to bring 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 some more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Room protection door lock
If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection 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 Johannesburg 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
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Be sure to choose the necessary type. The majority of adapters available are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change 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
Travel pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
If you visit the Origins Centre - South African Museum of Rock Art, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Comfy walking shoes
April
April here is mild. Temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains about a third of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Extra socks
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Light jacket or fleece
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Pants or jeans
Light and heavy skirts
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
Rain pants
These can be vital in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We recommend:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
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 Johannesburg 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.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
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
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Be careful to find the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters currently available are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most countries.
Travel neck support 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
If you visit the Origins Centre - South African Museum of Rock Art, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Comfy walking shoes
May
Traveling to Johannesburg in May, you will notice that it can be chilly and dry with little rain. Daytime temperatures are in the 60s F (high 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Pants or jeans
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Light and heavy skirts
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Extra socks
Light jacket or fleece
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb option.
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 wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly product.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For added protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Room protection door lock
If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself 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 Johannesburg may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: 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
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel pillow
Our favorite is this one
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Be careful to pick the right type. Most adapters currently being sold are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most countries.
If you visit the Origins Centre - South African Museum of Rock Art, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Comfy walking shoes
June
June in Johannesburg is cool. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 40s F (single digits C), with a few days below 32 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
Light and heavy skirts
Light jacket or fleece
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Pants or jeans
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Extra socks
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly product.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
Room protection door lock
If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For added protection, 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 Johannesburg 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
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Ensure that you get the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most areas.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel neck support pillow
A good option is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
If you visit the Origins Centre - South African Museum of Rock Art, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Comfy walking shoes
July
Traveling to Johannesburg in July, you will notice that it is cool and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the low 60s F (mid 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Pants or jeans
Extra socks
Light and heavy skirts
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Light jacket or fleece
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country 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 great choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Room protection door lock
If staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection 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 Johannesburg may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
Anti-theft backpack
For some more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
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 necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most countries.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel neck pillow
What we like is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
If you visit the Origins Centre - South African Museum of Rock Art, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Comfy walking shoes
August
If you visit Johannesburg during August, you are likely to see that it is cool 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
Light and heavy skirts
Extra socks
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Pants or jeans
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Light jacket or fleece
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
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 useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly choice.
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 Johannesburg 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, get some added protection with a portable door lock.
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
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 voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Check that you pick the correct type. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most locations.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck pillow
A versatile choice is this one
If you visit the Origins Centre - South African Museum of Rock Art, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Comfy walking shoes
September
Traveling to Johannesburg in September, you will notice that it is mild and very dry. Expect it to rain sometimes. Daytime temperatures are in the low 60s F (low 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light jacket or fleece
Pants or jeans
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Light and heavy skirts
Extra socks
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Dresses
You can find some great options here
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
Rain pants
These can be vital in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags remain dry. We recommend:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
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 bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great one.
Safety + Security
Room protection door lock
If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection 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 Johannesburg may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
Anti-theft backpack
For additional protection, 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 pillow
Our favorite is this one
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Take care to find the correct type. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most areas.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
If you visit the Origins Centre - South African Museum of Rock Art, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Comfy walking shoes
October
If you visit Johannesburg during October, you will probably notice that it is balmy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 50s F (low 10s C). Humidity is generally between 40 and 50% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain 5-10 days this month.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light skirts
Bug repellent
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Sunscreen lotion
Extra socks
Short pants or heavy shorts
Breathable footwear or sandals
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Sandals
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be vital in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We suggest:
Health
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.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly option.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can 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 Johannesburg 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, 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
Travel neck pillow
Our fave is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
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 choose the right type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.
If you visit the Origins Centre - South African Museum of Rock Art, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Comfy walking shoes
November
November in Johannesburg is warm and somewhat stormy. 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
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Extra socks
Light skirts
Short pants or heavy shorts
Sunscreen lotion
Breathable footwear or sandals
Bug repellent
Sandals
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things 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.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great value.
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.
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 Johannesburg may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
Room protection door lock
If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.
Anti-theft backpack
For some more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck pillow
What we like is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices 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
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 for sale now 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 be appropriate for most areas.
If you visit the Origins Centre - South African Museum of Rock Art, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Comfy walking shoes
December
December in this region is a perfect temperature and somewhat stormy. Temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Short pants or heavy shorts
Bug repellent
Light skirts
Sandals
Sunscreen lotion
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Breathable footwear or sandals
Extra socks
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants will be vital in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings stay dry. We suggest:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly product.
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 first aid kit
This one is a great option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For added protection, 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 Johannesburg may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
Room protection door lock
If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can find 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
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Ensure that you pick the necessary type. Most adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most locations.
Travel neck pillow
A good option 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
If you visit the Origins Centre - South African Museum of Rock Art, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Comfy walking shoes
What to do in Johannesburg, South Africa
Johannesburg, also known as Jo'burg or Joburg, is the largest city in South Africa and an economic hub of the country. It’s a melting pot of cultures and a city that never sleeps, making it a great destination for tourists. With lots of different things to see and do, here are the top tourist attractions in Johannesburg.
Apartheid Museum
The Apartheid Museum is one of the most important museums in South Africa. It tells the story of apartheid, the system of racial segregation that was enforced in South Africa from 1948 to 1994. The exhibitions are incredibly moving and powerful, with a mix of photographs, videos, and personal testimonies. This is a must-visit for anyone wanting to learn more about South Africa’s history.
Soweto
Soweto, short for South Western Townships, is a sprawling township located just outside of Johannesburg. It’s a vibrant and buzzing place that is famous for its role in the struggle against apartheid. Many South African leaders, including Nelson Mandela, lived in Soweto, and it’s now a place where visitors can learn about the history of the city and experience local culture. A visit to Soweto includes a tour of the different neighborhoods and landmarks, including the Hector Pieterson Memorial, the Regina Mundi Church, and the Mandela House.
Lion Park
The Lion Park is a wildlife reserve located just a short drive from Johannesburg. It’s a great place to see some of South Africa’s most famous animals up close, including lions, cheetahs, and giraffes. Visitors can take a safari tour of the park, hand-feed some of the animals, and even get a photo taken with a lion cub!
Johannesburg Zoo
The Johannesburg Zoo is one of the oldest and largest zoos in South Africa, and it’s home to over 320 species of animals. Visitors can see everything from elephants and lions to meerkats and penguins. The zoo is also home to a number of endangered species, and there are various conservation and education programs on offer.
Gold Reef City
Gold Reef City is a theme park and entertainment complex located in the south of Johannesburg. It’s built on the site of an old gold mining town and features a range of attractions and experiences, including a tour of an old gold mine, roller coasters, water rides, and a variety of family-friendly activities. It’s a great place to spend a day with the family, and there are restaurants and shops on-site for when you need a break from the excitement.
Johannesburg is a city that has something for everyone, and these are just a few of the top tourist attractions on offer. Whether you’re interested in history, wildlife, or just having fun, Jo’burg is a great destination for your next vacation.

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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