In Nigeria casual wear is fine – tempered with the advice that in Muslim areas (including the coast) shorts and t-shirts can be frowned upon.
During the day it is hot so pack lightweight layers in natural fabrics, such as linen, cotton and bamboo that will keep you cool and are easier to wash and dry. Keep to light, neutral colours but not white (as it will get dirty and dusty very quickly).
Avoid blue or black clothing – the tsetse flies are drawn to these colours, and their bite can give you African Sleeping Sickness.
And it is also worth being aware that it's illegal to have army/combat type clothing or print.
Don't forget a safari hat or cap to protect you from the sun.
Wear plenty of sunscreen (we love the Riemann P20 range for 10 hour protection) and sunglasses too. Also, remember your insect/mosquito repellent.
It would be a good idea to pack a lightweight and versatile travel jacket. We like the SCOTTeVEST range because they have been specifically designed with travel in mind, offer plenty of storage pockets and have awesome additional features like RFID security and Personal Area Network connectivity.
Shoes to pack for Nigeria
Make sure you take comfy footwear (try Hotter shoes, they provide total comfort and look great too).
Clothing tips for women
Our suggestion is to pack knee-length or longer skirts or loose-fitting trousers, and tops which cover your shoulders.
Pack a sarong or pashmina or two, as there will often be times when it will be necessary to cover your head. You'll find multiple uses for these useful items in Nigeria, and they take up very little room in your bag too.
If you are here on business, dress modestly in a knee-length skirt-suit.
Clothing tips for men
Long trousers are a good idea.
If you are here on business, a lightweight suit and tie are appropriate.
Pack for the weather
The rainy season in the south is March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October and November. The north's rainy season is from July to September and a light raincoat is essential if you are travelling at these times.
During the dry season the Harmattan wind blows from the Sahara, so a sarong or wrap will be useful to keep the sand and dust off.
Nights can be cold in December and January so be sure to pack a fleece or jumper.
We love the Weather+ app – it gives an accurate 6 day forecast for day and night, which when you're planning from home is really helpful. You can keep all the places you've been to too – a nice way to remember your trip 🙂 Download for iPad/iPhone or Android
Travel essentials for Nigeria
A soft-sided rucksack is more practical than a hard suitcase for travelling around – it's easier to fit into the small planes or transfer vehicles. Using packing cubes can help to keep your belongings tidy whilst compressing the volume too.
Internal flights often have much lower baggage limits than your international carrier. Use an accurate luggage scale to ensure you keep within the weight allowance.
Pack a sling bag or lightweight day sack for daytime essentials.
Look after your mobile phone with a phone bunjee – it protects against loss, theft and damage
Avoid paying unexpected baggage fees – use an accurate luggage scale to ensure you keep within the weight allowance. Don't forget to leave room for souvenirs on the way home! Lekki Market in Lagos is a popular shopping destination with all sorts of crafts and local artifacts. You'll be expected to haggle hard for the best prices!
