There are varying opinions as to what is best to pack on an overland trip and throughout the years and after hundreds of overland trips one thing stays the same: everybody brings too much stuff!

You will not need all that ’stuff’, and you will be pleased to know that your overland truck does come fully stocked, kitchen sink and all…

Your best bet would be to follow the example set by more seasoned overlanders and who better than the Crew?

Photo By Dan Haneveer

You will find most crew members agree that there are a few key essentials needed in every overlanders backpack.

Key Essentials:

- No suitcase allowed on the truck! Get a backpack instead. Be sure to have a day bag separate from your main bag.
- Sleeping bag! A must for those travellers wanting to doze off with a semblance of comfort.
- Towel: even the ‘Hitch Hiker’s Guide to the Galaxy’ highlights the importance of your towel. Never go anywhere without it!

Though the above mentioned are sure to be found in any crew members backpack, I know you will find the following ‘must-haves’ included in said backpack as well.

Must-haves:

- Comfy shoes: 1x sandals (or any kind of open shoes – for the hot African days), 1x hiking shoes (for guided walks and hikes)

- A ‘scarfy’ (scarf) or sarong: perfect for the heat (when moistened it will keep you cool), perfect for the cold (simply wrap it around you, and be cold no more), perfect for dusty and windy conditions (use to shield eyes, ears and mouth against windy and dusty conditions), perfect when you lose your towel.

- A Sweater: a long sleeved sweater to shield against any cold weather. It will also shield against insects on the prowl for something tasty to bite into…

NB: don’t forget to bring along with you a mini first aid kit, just in case.

In Your Day Bag:
Your day bag should include all things that you will need with you during the day, as you may only have the chance to check your main bag in the mornings and evenings. Your day bag is likely to include the necessary to make your day as pleasant as possible, from sunscreen to sunglasses, a water bottle , and your current read.

What to wear?
When it comes to attire Overlanders need not worry about what they look like, no one will throw you dirty looks if you rock the same tee for the next day or two. Important to bring with you is a thick pair of socks, for those heavy duty walks that are almost guaranteed to crop up.

To prepare for the unpredictability of Africa’s weather it is recommended to pack at least one form of long trousers, and at least one form of short trousers, along with practical and easy to wash clothing.

The only ‘Cats’ you see have nothing to do with the catwalk, so forget fashion and opt for comfort instead.

The basics are really all you need to bring with you on your Overlanding Africa trip. In addition to the above mentioned essentials, don’t forget to pack your lust for adventure, an open mind and the willingness to muck-in.

Come prepared, and expect the unexpected – easy hey!

For all your overlanding requirements and advice, contact the team at OverlandingAfrica.com

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Tags: Overlanding, Overlanding Africa, overlanding tips, overlanding trip, overlanding truck, What To Pack