There are only so many things as exciting as going on a safari. The rush of meandering through dense forests, craning to catch just a glimpse of the elusive wild animals, is next to none. Even though nothing can prepare you for a unique experience such as this, it helps to have these few things in your bag.
We don't mean camouflage print galore. Heading into the wild is an unpredictable journey. The weather tends to yo-yo between deserted areas with a sparse population between extremes. Windy mornings can suddenly turn into hot afternoons that turn into chilly evenings without any warning. Therefore, you must carry layers, from fleece and windbreaker jackets to long-sleeve shirts. Opt for quick-dry materials and earthy tones, and do avoid wearing white or bright colours like red, yellow, pink etc. Apart from Decathlon and Wildcraft, Clawear and Jungle Stories are local brands offering good quality stuff.
Even though you'd be perched on a gypsy with an open roof, carrying comfortable footwear is essential. Since you may be required to walk a bit or go on hikes, you must bring hiking boots or trail runners. Don't forget to carry a pair of sandals when you want to lounge comfortably throughout the day. Finally, make sure that the shoes are a good fit and waterproof.
On a safari, you're bound to spend several hours in the sun, which can be harsh for the skin. Therefore, it is absolutely crucial to pack your trusted sunscreen and sunglasses. If you love donning a hat, carry that too. Other accessories may include arm sleeves to beat that scorching sun, and wet towels in a cool box for long waits. The Indian forests in summer can be particularly harsh, with dust thrown up by the gypsies in a rush. Carry a cotton scarf to wrap around your head, if you do not have face buffs. Government souvenir shops at most national park safari gates sell these (buffs) for on spot purchases. We recommend getting good quality ones for regular safari goers from brands like Pashoo-Pakshee (Govt. operated), Wild Pines or Decathlon.
If you want to make your safari trip worth it, remember to throw a binocular in your backpack. Sometimes the best you can get on a safari is spotting an animal far away. For such situations, experts recommend having a binocular with up to 8x magnification and 42 mm objective lens diameter serves well. If you're into wildlife photography, ensure to carry appropriate zoom lenses for your camera. Some parks do not allow mobile phones, so carry your point-and-shoot if you do not have a DSLR.
It's common to always find yourself up and about on safari trips. On such occasions, having a spare bag to carry all the essentials you may need on the go comes in handy. Bring a comfortable, sturdy and water-resistant backpack that you can take on safari tours so that you always have essential things like sunscreen, water bottle, camera lenses and binoculars on you.