travel right. pack light : tanzania
The atmosphere is pretty casual and there is no need to bring any formal dress. It can be hot and humid during the day while cooler at night. The key to maintaining your comfort is to bring ample layers and protection from sun, wind and insects. Less is more and leave valuables at home!
Your passport (be sure it’s up to date!)
1-2 paper copies of your passport
Copy of your COVID vaccination record
Tanzania tourist visa
Anyprescriptions or medications you need- I like to bring a small personal med kit filled with the essentials I use.
Motion sickness pills or sea bands if you get motion sick!!
Ibuprofen, Advil, Excedrin, Ginger, Charcoal, Electrolyte tablets, anti-diarrheal, antibiotics, anti-itch cream, aloe
Bandaids, alcohol wipes, ace bandage, tape, Bacitracin, Neosporin
Wallet/money
Facemasks
Sunscreen
Reusable water bottle
Small backpack or day bag
Phone
APPROVED at-home Covid tests for re-entry to the USA. Abbot’s BinaxNOW Antigen tests.
Universal travel adapter. The outlets in Tanzania are types D and G
Hat (for cold and sun)
Assortment of t-shirts, shorts and tanks tops
Windbreaker or light weight rain jacket
Sweatshirt
Light sweater
Flipflops/Teva/ or similar water sandals
Long pants and socks for hiking/exploring
Sneakers
Comfortable walking shoes
Sundress for dinners out
bathing suit
Beach cover up
Personal toiletries
Sleep mask/ear plugs
Headlight
Camera
Travel alarm clock
Extra batteries
Personal first aid kit
Tampons/pads
Book/journal/pen
Sunglasses
Games like cards, bananagrams, Dominos etc
Currency
The currency in Tanzania is the Tanzania Shilling. USD are widely used and sometimes even better to use due to the exchange rate. Cash and Travelers checks can also be exchanged at banks but please make sure you bring cash that is crisp and clean and free of rips and tears.
There are ATM's where you can withdraw cash if needed.
Credit cards aren't always accepted so please don't depend on them as your only means of buying something.
You will need money for very few meals (2) that are not included, any souvenir shopping you want to do, any alcohol you consume, extra snacks and things and if you want to do any additional activities.
A fantastic app to download to your phone to make conversions easier is XE CURRENCY.
Tipping
There will not be many situations where you will need to tip but as always if you feel a service given to you deserves it, then it is up to your discretion i.e. driver, hotel staff, instructor....If you do an optional tour or experience generally a 10% tip is appreciated.
Typically the tip for our local guide and driver is not included and is handled by the group by the end of the trip either on an individual basis or on a group basis. This will be discussed with your Purposeful Nomad guide. It is completely up to your discretion but general ranges run between $5-$10 per day for the guide and for the driver- $3-$5 per day.
Wondering what’s in my suitcase? Here are some of my fav packing essentials. From skin care to gear and everything in between. Plus-all selections are from some of my favorite women owned, sustainable stores. Happy packing! ~Caitlin