Safari Hunter’s Checklist

 

 

It is difficult to provide a comprehensive list of items to take on safari.  Individual styles and tastes vary, so you should pack as to your individual requirements.  REMEMBER:  airlines restrict you to TWO checked bags with a maximum weight limit of  50 LBS (most airlines), and most international flights are cutting carry-on bags to ONE per passenger plus a small personal bag, so pack accordingly.

 

Pre-Trip

 

Contract with Agent/Outfitter (GET IT IN WRITING)

Make travel arrangements

-make reservations yourself, or use specialized travel agent (be certain transfer airline carries firearms)

Obtain passport & any necessary visa for destination country.

Register with US State Dept. https://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs/ui/index.aspx

Make taxidermy/shipping arrangements.

-Obtain laminated address cards X 3 for each trophy from taxidermist

Learn African species shot placement

Practice with shooting sticks

Recommend rolling duffel-style bags with TSA locks

Hard-sided gun case with TSA locks

Check as to your health insurance coverage overseas

Consider medical & security evacuation & rescue coverage from   www.ripcordtravelprotection.com

 

Traveler’s items

 

Airline tickets

Large duffle, wheeled is better

Airline approved locking gun case

Sturdy carry-on bag

- include one change of clothes, personal items, medication, electronics & detachable rifle scope (if QD mounts)

- consider bag that is convertible to backpack for field use is best

Passport (with two photocopies, stored in separate locations when traveling

Visa (if required)

Immunization documentation (where required)

US Customs form 4457 (see below/at least 2 copies in different locations)

 

US Customs Certificate of Registration – Form 4457* - For re-importation of guns

NOTE:  Obama Administration is in the process of promulgating regulations to make private exportation of firearms much more difficult.  Stay alert to changes that could affect your travel.

 

Form SAP 520**  - For Import/Export of firearm if hunting in South Africa (every African country has their own firearms importation requirements.  Check with your PH/Outfitter as to the particular requirements of your destination)

 

Loose fitting, comfortable clothing for international flight

Sleep aid to assist in adjustment to change in time zone

Malaria prophylactic (check area where traveling)

Multi-plug adaptor for electrical items & Converter

Credit card(s)

Travelers Cheques

Traveler’s/evacuation insurance

 

*  Available from a US Customs office

**Downloadable at http://www.saps.gov.za/services/flash/firearms/forms/english/e520.pdf

 

 

            Clothing

 

Three changes of hunting clothing in neutral colors ( khaki, olive, etc.)

Warm Jacket (medium weight)

Sweater

Gortex-type rain coat

Gloves

Soft sole hunting boots – ankle high – well broken in (2 pair if you can afford the weight)

Socks

Belt

Underwear

Hat – wide brim to protect neck and ears

Camp shoes

Casual clothing for before/after hunt and evening in camp

 

            Personal Items

 

Hanging Toilet Kit

Sunblock – SPF30 or higher

Lip balm

Sunglasses with strap

Band-aids or blister blocker

Shaving/dopp kit

Moist towelettes

Anti-diarrhea tablets

Prophylactic antibiotic

Aspirin/Tylenol/etc.

Antihistamine

Insect repellant

Personal items

Small flashlight w/batteries

Digital camera w/plenty of batteries & memory cards

Video camera with extra batteries and charger

Small diary and pen

 

            Hunting Equipment

 

Hunting weapon

Soft case for transportation to/from field

Ammo pouch

Binoculars

Ammunition – maximum 5 kg  per traveler, transported in locked case (not guncase)

Arrows & broadheads – 12 (minimum), more is better

Archery field repair kit

Dust-proof field bag (for cameras, video, etc) This could be your carry-on

Taxidermy shipping tags to be left with your trophies