Luggage Guidelines for Safari Flights
Preparing for Your Journey: Embarking on an African safari involves specific luggage considerations due to the unique nature of light aircraft transfers between camps. These guidelines are essential for your safety and the efficient operation of these flights.
Why These Restrictions?
Light aircraft have maximum weight allowances for both passengers and luggage.
High-altitude airstrips in tropical regions impact aircraft carrying capacity.
Space within these aircraft is limited.
Bag Structure and Size:
Required Type: Soft, flexible bags are necessary for compatibility with tight cargo spaces.
Ideal Dimensions: Bags should not exceed 16 inches wide, 12 inches high, and 24 inches long, reflecting the typical cargo hold's opening size. This is a suggested size, however, you can have larger luggage IF it can be manipulated to fit within the cargo hold.
Preferable Style: Duffle bags without rigid frames are ideal. Bags with small wheels are permissible but add to the total weight and may hinder storage in the aircraft.
Exceptions:
For South Africa, you are allowed one checked bag, per person, weighing up to 44 pounds. You may also have a carry-on with weight limit of 17 pounds (Soft-sided bags are NOT required for your trip unless otherwise disclosed to you).
The video below shows the size of the average luggage compartment on a bush plane (In this case a Cessna Caravan) and why a soft sided bag is required.
Luggage Guidelines for Safari Flights in Africa
| Region | Luggage Type | Maximum Luggage Dimensions | Total Luggage Limit (including hand luggage) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia Safari | Soft bags | 16in (W) x 12in (H) x 24in (L) | 20kg (44lbs) per person |
| Eastern Africa | Soft bags | 16in (W) x 12in (H) x 24in (L) | 15kg (33lbs) per person |
| Central Africa | Soft bags | 16in (W) x 12in (H) x 24in (L) | 15kg (33lbs) per person |
| South Africa and Victoria Falls | Varies | Varies | 20kg (44lbs) per person |
Excess Baggage: If your luggage exceeds these limits, consider purchasing an additional seat for it, based on availability and airline policy.
Reminders to help you stay within the baggage limit:
Basic amenities are usually available at safari accommodations.
Laundry services are widely offered, either complimentary or for a small fee.
Casual clothing suffices for most safari activities; formal attire is rarely needed.
Multi-Destination Travels: Adhere to the strictest weight limits when traveling across multiple regions. Assistance with storing or shipping excess luggage is available, potentially at an additional cost.
Final Reminder: Always confirm with us to ensure your luggage complies with the size and weight restrictions for your specific flights.