WHAT TO TAKE ON A TOUR

[Martin Hash]

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European airlines allow only 20 kilos (44 lbs.) of checked luggage, plus a size limit on a single piece of carryon baggage. American airlines allow 50 lbs. for checked baggage – obviously, if you don’t pack for the lighter of the two weights (44 lbs.) you’ll either pay for overweight bags in Europe, throw away 6 lbs. of hastily-selected spare items at the ticket counter, or try to stuff your clothes and carryon beyond capacity.

The weight restrictions actually work in your favor because you don’t want to be hauling 50 lbs. (over even 44 lbs.) of dead weight all over Africa. Every past trans-Africa traveler has admitted they brought too much stuff, and they’re right. At the same time, most first time overlanders don’t bring essential items, and with such draconian weight restrictions you’ve got to strategize. Below is the short list of what you should have:

1) Don’t bring toiletries like mouthwash, deodorant, soap, or shampoo – they’re heavy and bulky. Buy those items when you get to Africa.

2) 1 roll of toilet paper. (Buy 2 more in Africa.)

3) Toothbrush and small toothpaste, (for an airport lavatory refresher).

4) Fullsize but folds small air mattress, (and repair kit).

5) Cold weather sleeping bag.

6) Cloth sleep sheet.

7) LED flashlight, (and 1 set replacement batteries).

8) 3 pairs women’s nylon pantsocks, (they keep you warm and clean, they wash easy and they’re pack well).

9) 3 pairs underwear.

10) 1 t-shirt, (for sleeping in).

11) 1 pair thermal underwear.

12) Bottle of aspirin.

13) Box of “Immodium AD,” (to stop diarrhea).

14) Malaria pills.

15) Cold medicine, (“Triaminic Thin Strips”).

16) Bottle of antibiotics, (several 4-day courses worth).

17) 1 Long pants.

18) 1 Short pants, (light weight, many pockets).

19) Swim trunks.

20) 1 long-sleeve shirt.

21) 1 short-sleeve shirt.

22) Small hotel soap in ziplock bag.

23) Lightweight towel.

24) Clear toiletries bag.

25) Shoes or boots, (wear them on the plane, along with your long pants to save space).

26) Thongs.

27) Small computer.

28) Digital camera, (should download to your computer).

29) Plastic watch, (passes metal detectors).

30) Cell phone and charger.

31) iPod.

32) Universal plug adapter.

33) Crushable hat, (baseball cap).

34) Binoculars.

35) Magnifying glass.

36) Waterproof light coat.

37) You will not need a passport holder but you will need a something to keep your money and passport in while they stay in the safe on the truck you’ll be traveling in.

38) Black writing pen.

39) Personal journal.

40) Several pairs of glasses.

41) Durable backpack with water bottles, and exterior pocket for flashlight, etc.

42) Large, wheeled suitcase.

Optional but useful items:

•Your personal pillow that helps you sleep.
•3 books for the truck library, (you’ll read everyone else’s books too).
•Video camera, (include digitizing and editing software on your computer).
You can buy laundry soap, a rope to dry clothes on, insect repellant, blanket and other items when you arrive.

Be prepared to throw away all your clothes, hygiene items, and sleep gear before you go home to make room in your suitcase for souvenirs.