What to Pack: Kenya in a Carry-On

Packing for a safari to Kenya can be an overwhelming task, but when you’re traveling with just a carry-on, it can be downright scary.

But not to fear, Land + See is here!

Even though it requires careful planning and preparation to make sure you have all the necessary items, you absolutely can and should treat Kenya like any other carry-on friendly destination. To help ease your mind we’ve created a go-to packing list to ensure you don’t leave anything important behind.

Clothing

1. Lightweight, breathable clothes:

   • 3–4 T-shirts or long-sleeve shirts (neutral colors like beige, green, or khaki).

   • 2–3 pairs of lightweight pants or convertible zip-off trousers.

   • 1 pair of shorts (optional for lodge downtime).

   • 1–2 lightweight dresses or skirts (optional for evenings).

2. Warm layers for early mornings and evenings:

   • 1 fleece jacket or warm sweater.

   • 1 lightweight windbreaker or rain jacket (February can bring occasional showers).

3. Undergarments and socks:

   • Enough for the trip, or plan to wash items.

4. Comfortable shoes:

   • 1 pair of sturdy, closed-toe shoes or hiking boots.

   • 1 pair of sandals for relaxing at the lodge or camp.

5. Hat and sunglasses:

   • Wide-brimmed hat for sun protection.

   • Polarized sunglasses.

6. Swimsuit:

   • For lodges with pools.

7. Sleepwear:

   • Comfortable and weather-appropriate.

Toiletries and Personal Care

1. Travel-size toiletries:

   • Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo, soap, and any personal items.

   • Biodegradable options are preferred.

2. Sunscreen (high SPF):

   • Essential for sun protection.

3. Bug spray with DEET or Picaridin:

   • For mosquitoes and other insects.

4. Lip balm with SPF:

   • Protect against sun and wind.

5. Travel laundry detergent:

   • For washing clothes if needed.

Gear and Accessories

1. Daypack (small backpack):

   • To carry essentials during game drives (camera, water, etc.).

2. Binoculars:

   • Essential for wildlife viewing.

3. Camera with extra batteries or charger:

   • Or a smartphone with plenty of storage.

4. Reusable water bottle:

   • Stay hydrated; many lodges provide water for refills.

5. Universal power adapter:

   • Kenya uses Type G plugs (UK-style).

6. Lightweight scarf or buff:

   • For dust protection during drives.

7. Notebook or journal:

   • To record your safari experiences.

8. Headlamp or flashlight:

   • Handy for nighttime use in camps.

9. Travel documents:

   • Passport, visa, travel insurance, and any necessary permits (printed and digital copies).

Health and Safety

1. First-aid kit:

   • Pain relievers, antihistamines, motion sickness medication, band-aids, etc.

2. Malaria prevention medication:

   • Consult a doctor before your trip.

3. Hand sanitizer and wet wipes:

   • For hygiene on the go.

4. Masks (optional):

   • For dust or personal comfort.

Packing Tips

1. Layer and roll clothing:

   • Saves space in your carry-on.

2. Wear bulkier items on the plane:

   • Like your hiking boots and jacket.

3. Keep liquids in a quart-sized bag:

   • Follow airline carry-on restrictions.

4. Check baggage weight limits:

   • Ensure your carry-on and backpack meet size and weight requirements.

What to Pack: Italy (Shoulder Season)

Packing light for Italy in the shoulder season (spring or fall) is a great choice, as the weather is usually mild with occasional rain. Here’s a practical list for a carry-on-only trip, focused on versatile clothing that can be layered to adjust to varying temperatures.

Clothing

1. Tops:

   • 3–4 versatile tops in breathable fabrics (a mix of short- and long-sleeved)

   • 1 lightweight sweater or cardigan for layering

   • 1–2 nicer tops for dinners out

2. Bottoms:

   • 2 pairs of pants (one lighter and one darker pair)

   • 1 pair of comfortable jeans or stylish pants

   • 1 skirt or casual dress (optional but nice for going out)

3. Outerwear:

   • 1 lightweight, water-resistant jacket

   • 1 scarf (adds warmth and style, especially for cooler evenings)

   • Compact umbrella (optional but helpful for rainy days)

4. Shoes:

   • 1 pair of comfortable walking shoes (water-resistant if possible)

   • 1 pair of dressier flats or loafers for evenings

   • Optional: 1 pair of sandals if you’re expecting warmer weather

5. Sleepwear and Undergarments:

   • Pajamas or sleepwear

   • Enough undergarments for the trip (or plan to hand-wash)

   • 3–4 pairs of socks

Accessories and Essentials

• Crossbody bag or small backpack (safe and hands-free option for sightseeing)

• Sunglasses and a sun hat (for warmer days)

• Compact toiletries (under 3.4 ounces/100 mL each for TSA, or buy essentials in Italy to save space)

• Minimal makeup and personal care items (consider multi-use products like tinted moisturizer with SPF)

• Travel-size laundry detergent (hand-washing essentials as needed)

Electronics

• Phone and charger

• Plug adapter (Italy uses the type C, F, and L plugs; ensure compatibility)

• Portable power bank (helpful for long sightseeing days)

Documents and Extras

• Passport and travel documents

• Printed or digital copies of important reservations

• Travel journal or guidebook

Tips for Shoulder Season

• Layering is key: Italian weather can be warm during the day but cooler in the mornings and evenings.

• Pack versatile clothing that can mix and match to create multiple outfits.

• Pack light: Italians tend to dress stylishly yet simply, so you can blend in without bringing too much.

• Cover Up: If your plans involve visiting churches or religious sites, plan to have both your knees and shoulders covered out of respect.

This list will keep you prepared and comfortable while enjoying Italy’s beauty without the hassle of heavy luggage.

What to Pack: Norway+ Sweden in a Carry-On

Traveling to Norway and Sweden in September means you'll experience mild weather with a mix of cool and potentially rainy days. Here’s a packing list designed to fit into a carry-on and personal item:

Clothing

1. Layers:

   • 2-3 Long-sleeve shirts (lightweight and breathable)

   • 2-3 Short-sleeve shirts (for layering)

   • 1-2 Sweaters or fleece jackets (for warmth)

   • 1 Lightweight, packable down jacket (can be compressed into a small space)

   • 1 Waterproof rain jacket or shell (with a hood)

   • 1-2 Pairs of pants (one pair of jeans and one pair of travel pants)

   • 1 Pair of leggings or thermal pants (for layering or comfort)

2. Footwear:

   • 1 Pair of comfortable walking shoes (water-resistant if possible)

   • 1 Pair of lightweight sneakers or flats (for variety or evenings)

3. Underwear and Socks:

   • 5-7 Pairs of underwear (quick-dry material)

   • 5-7 Pairs of socks (include a few pairs of wool or thermal socks)

   • 1-2 Bras (if needed)

4. Accessories:

   • 1-2 Scarves (can be used for warmth and style)

   • 1 Beanie or hat (for warmth)

   • 1 Pair of gloves (lightweight, in case of cooler weather)

   • Sunglasses

   • Belt

Toiletries

1. Travel-sized shampoo, conditioner, and body wash

2. Toothbrush and travel-sized toothpaste

3. Deodorant (travel size)

4. Moisturizer and lip balm (for potential dryness)

5. Razor and small shaving cream

6. Travel-sized sunscreen

7. Any necessary medications (in their original packaging)

8. Makeup essentials (in a compact bag)

9. Hairbrush or comb

10. Travel-sized laundry detergent (for hand-washing clothes)

Electronics

1. Phone and charger

2. Portable power bank

3. Adapter plug (European plug type, usually Type C or F)

4. E-reader or tablet (instead of bulky books)

5. Small camera (optional)

6. Headphones or earbuds

Travel Documents & Essentials

1. Passport and copies of important documents

2. Travel insurance information

3. Credit/debit cards (notify your bank of travel)

4. Cash (a small amount of local currency for emergencies)

5. Travel-sized umbrella

6. Reusable water bottle (collapsible for space-saving)

7. Reusable shopping bag (lightweight and packable)

Personal Item (Backpack or Tote Bag)

1. Travel pillow

2. Snacks (for the flight or day trips)

3. Pen and notebook (small size)

4. Small first aid kit (band-aids, pain relievers, etc.)

Optional Items

1. Compact binoculars (for sightseeing)

2. Small foldable daypack (for day trips)

3. Compact tripod (if into photography)

This packing list should keep you prepared for various weather conditions while staying within the limits of a carry-on and personal item.