A short, practical list — organized by what you actually need versus what’s genuinely optional.
Essentials for every safari:
- Closed-toe shoes (sandals let sand in and offer no support for dune bashing or sandboarding)
- Loose, breathable clothing in a color you don’t mind getting dusty
- Sunglasses
- A phone in a secure pocket, or a wrist strap, for photos during dune bashing
- A small amount of cash for tips or optional extras at camp (quad biking add-ons, photos, shisha)
For evening and overnight safaris specifically:
- A light jacket, shawl, or scarf — desert nights cool down noticeably after sunset
- A power bank, if you plan to take a lot of photos or video across a 5–6 hour trip
For morning safaris:
- Sunscreen and a hat — you’re outdoors in direct sun for a larger share of the trip than on the evening version
- A refillable water bottle
Overnight-specific extras (beyond the standard list):
- Toiletries — tents and sleeping bags are provided, but personal toiletries are not
- A basic first-aid item or two if you take regular medication
- A warm layer beyond what you’d pack for an evening-only trip — nighttime desert temperatures drop further than most visitors expect
What to leave at the hotel:
- Valuables you’d be upset to lose or damage — the desert is genuinely dusty
- Heels or open sandals
- Anything electronic you’re not prepared to have exposed to fine sand
A note on children. If you’re bringing kids, pack a change of clothes — camel rides, sandboarding, and general camp activity tend to end with sandy clothing regardless of how careful anyone is.
For the full inclusions of each package (so you know what’s already provided versus what to bring yourself), see Evening Desert Safari, Overnight Desert Safari, or Family Desert Safari.
Safeway Tourism LLC Packages