Are you gearing up for an unforgettable journey through Kenya’s breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture?
Choosing the right travel bag is arguably one of the most important considerations that you will be making before you set out on your adventure.
Choosing the right bag can effectively determine the success of your trip depending on the type of adventure: from the concrete sidewalks of Nairobi to the smooth sand of Mombasa or the rough rocks of Maasai Mara.
Why Choosing Your Travel Bag Matters
That is why when traveling in Kenya your bag is much more than just a carrier of personal effects. It is your friend during a walk in the ever-busy Nairobi streets or a bumpy ride over the savannah in Maasai Mara or a stroll over the sandy beaches of a tropical island.
Choosing the right bag will ensure your items are secure, easily accessible, and well-organized so that you can enjoy all the fantastic things this East African jewel has to offer.
Possible types of travel bags
Backpacks: The Versatile Option
Most of the visitors to Kenya prefer to travel with backpacks. They are convenient and perfect for those who intend to travel around or engage in outdoor activities.
Pros of Backpacks:
- Portable and mobile.
- Ideal for areas with bad roads and crowded places.
- They usually have several sections for storage.
Cons of Backpacks:
- May be less safe, especially in buy areas.
- It may lead to back strain especially when over packed.
- Not suitable for use in official events.
Wheeled Luggage: Smooth Rolling
Nonetheless, if you intend to spend most of your time in towns or smooth surfaced lodges, rolling types of bags may be advisable. These bags are ideal for those travellers who do not wish to bear some load on their backs.
Pros of Wheeled Luggage:
- Easy to transport, particularly on flat surfaces
- Usually, they are larger than backpacks
- Also, it can be used as a seat when waiting.
Cons of Wheeled Luggage:
- Not easy to manoeuvre especially on rough surfaces
- Occupies more space in vehicles
- Can be tiresome especially when using the stairs.
Duffel Bags: The Flexible Friend
Duffel bags are somewhat between backpacks and wheeled luggage. They are large, versatile, and can be carried in various forms.
Pros of Duffel Bags:
- Highly versatile and adaptable
- Can be squeezed into very confined spaces
- Often lightweight
Cons of Duffel Bags:
- May be somewhat inconvenient to hold for a longer duration
- May lack organization features
- Often not as durable as other available options
Things to Consider when Choosing a Travel Bag for Kenya
Durability
Kenya has a variety of terrains that will challenge your luggage’s durability. Select bags which are made from rigid fabrics such as ballistic nylon or high-denier polyester. Tough and durable seams can also not be overlooked alongside quality zippers to ensure that they last longer.
Weather Resistance
Although Kenya enjoys warm weather throughout the year, you might experience rainy weather, especially if you are visiting during the rainy season. They will shield your items from getting wet in the instance of rain or while on a boat cruise at Lake Victoria.
Security Features
However, like any other tourist destination, one can easily fall victim to pickpocketing in some areas. Choose bags with zippers that can be locked and additional pockets that are concealed to ensure your belongings do not go missing in crowded markets and city areas.
Comfort
Whether you are hiking in Kakamega Forest or taking a leisurely walk along the beach of Diani, comfort should come first. Comfortable straps, mesh on the back side, and thoughtful designs can go a long way during the hours of adventure.
Size and Weight
Take into account the duration of the trip and the luggage policy of the selected means of transportation. Small aircraft often used for transfers when on a safari have a limited carrying capacity especially for baggage and therefore, a spacious and light bag should be preferred.
Useful Advice on Packing for Your Kenyan Trip
Now that you’ve chosen the perfect bag, here are some packing tips to make the most of your Kenyan journey:
- Layer Up: The climate in Kenya can be best described as warm and this varies with the region and the time of the day. Pack lightweight, breathable layers of clothing that you can layer on and peel off as needed.
- Sun Protection: Make sure not to leave home without a wide-brimmed hat, shades, and lip balm with at least SPF 30. Sun in the equatorial region is extremely harsh particularly when one is at a higher altitude.
- Insect Repellent: Bring an effective insect repellent to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes and other insects especially if you are going to wildlife parks.
- Comfortable Footwear: Pack shoes for the wildlife drives and hikes and flip flops for the beach.
- Camera Gear: Kenya is a remarkable place to take pictures. Ensure that the bag that you select has adequate cushioning to shield your camera equipment.
- Reusable Water Bottle: Avoid using plastic water bottles by carrying your own refillable bottle to help you quench your thirst.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Pack some modest clothing options for occasions like visiting religious places or conservative regions.
Getting the Best out of Your Travel Bag in Kenya
The kind of travel bag you are going to choose will be with you throughout your adventure in Kenya. Here are some final tips to ensure it serves you well:
- Stay Organized: Pack your clothes and accessories in packing cubes or compression bags to save space and organize effectively.
- Be Adaptable: Select a bag that can be used on a safari, city, and beach.
- Keep Essentials Accessible: Place items like passports, medications, and other traveling documents in easily accessible pockets.
- Consider a Daypack: For day trips, nothing is as useful as a small, compact, foldable backpack that can be easily carried along.
Environmental Considerations: The Plastic Bag Ban in Kenya
Before concluding the article, it is important to highlight that as of August 28, 2017, Kenya has prohibited the use of plastic bags across the country.
This includes the thin plastic bags common in carrying shopping items and the thick plastic bags used in packaging.
The public should avoid using plastic bags when visiting the country and instead use cloth bags.
Conclusion: Your Gateway to Kenyan Adventures
Choosing the right travel bag for your trip to Kenya is one of the ways that will enable you to have a smooth trip. When choosing a durable fabric, comfortable shoes, and a secure lock, you will be ready for any challenge your journey presents, from the undulating plains of Tsavo to the shores of Watamu’s coral gardens.
Just remember, the best bag is the one you do not really pay attention to because it is doing its job perfectly. It should improve your travelling does not complicate it. So, you can just walk around with your bag and enjoy the stunning scenery and culturally significant landmarks in Kenya.
Therefore, pack wisely and bring only what is necessary because you are in for the experience of a lifetime in the Eastern Heart of Africa. The beauty of the Kenyan landscapes, the openness of the people, and the magnificent animals are all still out there to be explored. This amazing journey begins with a perfectly packed bag!
