Choosing the right luggage can make all the difference when traveling, whether you’re heading on a weekend getaway or embarking on a long-term adventure. With countless options on the market, selecting a bag that suits your travel style, destination, and personal preferences is essential. A well-chosen piece of luggage will not only keep your belongings secure and organized but also enhance your overall travel experience by providing convenience and durability throughout your journey.

When it comes to luggage selection, it’s important to strike a balance between size, weight, and functionality. From carry-ons to large suitcases, hard-shell designs to soft-sided bags, the type of luggage you choose should reflect both the nature of your trips and your personal travel habits. Do you prioritize mobility with rolling suitcases, or do you prefer the versatility of a backpack? 

From navigating busy airports to enduring rugged landscapes, your luggage needs to be durable, secure, and easy to maneuver. With so many options offering unique features like organizational compartments, TSA locks, and water-resistant materials, picking the right luggage involves understanding the key features that matter most for your particular travel style.

• Trip Length
• Carry-On vs. Checked:
• Backpacks vs. Suitcases
• Wheels
• Laptop Sleeve
• Easy Access
• Lockable Zippers
• Budget
• Warranty

These factors will help ensure you get the right travel bag for your adventures. For most travelers, Osprey is the cream of the crop so to speak. You only need a weeks worth of clothes, then you can do laundry. A good travel pillow is a luxury you can’t afford to leave, if you want to sleep well.

When preparing for a trip, packing the right essentials can make your travel experience much smoother. Packing cubes are a game-changer for keeping your suitcase organized, allowing you to easily separate clothes, toiletries, and other items, making unpacking a breeze.

A LifeStraw water filter is an invaluable tool, especially for adventure travelers or those visiting destinations where clean drinking water isn’t guaranteed, ensuring you can stay hydrated safely. Additionally, a travel adapter is essential for keeping your electronics charged and functioning, no matter where you are in the world. 

I listed two different water bottles here; the Lifestraw is the better quality with a five year filter while the Vapur is the cheaper option with no filter. As with anything, you’ll have to test your budget.

The glow sticks are not a necessity but I like to use them for my tent at night time. If you have 20-25 people on an overland vehicle, it makes it easier to find your tent if you get up in the middle of the night.

You will see two adapters. The first is the traditional US/Europe/Asia adapter, while the second is the adapter you will need for Africa.

While not everyone will feel they need their laptop, I bring mine everywhere. Typically, you spend many hours on safari vehicles, so headphones are an absolute.

A power bank is another necessity as charging points in safari areas can be sporadic. Always back up your photos and videos to a hard drive each day.

I tried to keep this section simple, but obviously you could debate all day which camera lenses you should bring on a safari. This is a good starting point and these are high quality camera bodies without breaking the bank on the R5II or Sony A9.