Casual, comfortable clothes are the key when travelling in Zambia.
During the day it is hot so our advice is to pack lightweight loose-fitting clothes in natural fabrics such as linen and cotton that will keep you cool and are easier to wash and dry.
We suggest keeping to light neutral colours – e.g. khaki, green and brown, 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 important to note that camouflage or military clothing and print is not permitted.
Long trousers and long-sleeved tops will cover you from the harsh sun and protect against mosquitoes at night.
Don't forget a safari hat to protect your face and neck, and sunglasses.
When on safari, the idea is to relax and enjoy your time under the African sky, and listen to the calls of the wild all around you! Dinner dress is therefore casual and comfortable.
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 Zambia
If you plan to do much walking, either on safari or with a backpack, then lightweight walking shoes or trainers are fine – the bush is not always smooth and even, so anything that minimises the chance of a twisted ankle is a good idea. Try Hotter shoes, they are very light and comfortable.
Clothing tips for women
This is a conservative country, so either knee-length (or longer) skirts or trousers are ideal.
Avoid wearing revealing clothes, as you may be regarded as women of ill repute and will attract unwanted attention.
A pashmina or sarong is a versatile item that you can use for sun protection or to ‘glam' up the simplest of outfits if you feel like a change.
Leave your valuables and jewellery at home, you really won't need them.
Clothing tips for men
In the towns and villages it is more acceptable for men to wear long trousers rather than shorts.
Pack for the weather
May, June, July, August, September, October and November is the dry season and it will be hot everywhere.
The wet season between December, January, February and March is totally different, and the days can vary enormously from one to the next. Even within a day, skies will often change from sunny to cloudy within minutes and then back again. Downpours are usually heavy and short, and often in the late afternoon. Even so it will still be hot during the day and a little cooler at night – so packing a lightweight raincoat and a pashmina or jacket would be a good idea.
It gets really cold in the winter and June and July are especially cold, but May and August can also get chilly. It's pleasant in the daytimes when the sun is shining but for nights, evenings and early mornings you'll need a thick jacket, scarf and a warm hat and gloves.
light wool is a good choice to wear against your skin as it naturally helps to regulate your body temperature. It keeps you warm in the cold, wicks away moisture when it's hot, and doesn't retain odours – even after prolonged wear.
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
Regions of Zambia
If you plan on visiting Victoria Falls it is good to wear trainers or good walking shoes as the paths can get wet – especially between November and February. The falls are very misty at this time of year and in places you get wet – it is not cold but a very lightweight raincoat is a good idea at these times. A small travel umbrella will also be useful – particularly when you want to take photos, or you may like to take a waterproof phone case.
Zambia travel essentials
A soft-sided rucksack is more practical than a hard suitcase for safari holidays – 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 sightseeing trips and game drives.
Look after your mobile phone with a phone bunjee – it protects against loss, theft and damage. You may like to carry a solar powered charger too, to boost your battery when out and about – you don't want to miss that great photo opportunity!
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! Browse the craft markets, where you can pick up wood carvings, jewellery and basket work.
If you have room in your luggage, take a few small gifts for the local children – pens, notebooks, small games etc. They will be much appreciated.
