Packing Tips: What to Bring for a Seamless Island Experience

Zanzibar’s allure lies in its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and tropical vibes. But packing for this idyllic destination requires a little extra thought, as not everything you might need is readily available on the island. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for another slice of paradise, this guide will help you pack smartly for a hassle-free stay.

1. Clothing Essentials: Pack for Comfort and Modesty

Zanzibar’s tropical climate calls for lightweight, breathable clothing. However, it’s also important to respect the island’s predominantly Muslim culture, especially in villages and Stone Town.

• Beachwear: Pack swimsuits, sarongs, and light cover-ups for the beach or resort areas.
• Casual Clothing: Loose-fitting cotton or linen outfits are perfect for staying cool.
• Modest Attire: For trips to local villages or Stone Town, bring knee-length skirts, trousers, or dresses and tops that cover your shoulders.
• Evening Wear: Lightweight casual outfits for dining out at beach restaurants.
• Rain Gear: If visiting during the rainy season (March-May or November), pack a compact rain jacket.

2. Footwear: Keep It Simple

• Flip-Flops or Sandals: Essential for the beach and casual outings.
• Comfortable Walking Shoes: For exploring Stone Town or nature trails like Jozani Forest.
• Water Shoes: Useful for rocky areas or snorkeling excursions.

3. Sun Protection: The Tropical Sun is No Joke

Zanzibar’s sun can be intense, so pack items to keep yourself protected:

• High-SPF Sunscreen: Reef-safe varieties are recommended to protect marine life.
• Wide-Brim Hat: Essential for shielding your face and neck.
• Sunglasses: Polarized lenses are ideal for cutting down glare from the water.
• A Lightweight Scarf: Useful for sun protection or as a modesty cover when needed

4. Toiletries and Medications: Bring What You Need

While basic toiletries can be found on the island, your favorite brands might not be available.

• Toiletries: Shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and toothpaste in travel-sized bottles.
• Bug Repellent: Essential to ward off mosquitoes, especially in the evenings.
• Medications: Bring any prescription medications, plus basics like pain relievers, antihistamines, and motion sickness tablets.
• First Aid Kit: Pack plasters, antiseptic cream, and any other small medical essentials.
• Feminine Hygiene Products: These can be hard to find, so bring your preferred supplies.

5. Electronics and Gadgets

Power outages can happen, so be prepared.

• Universal Travel Adapter: Zanzibar uses the British-style three-pin plugs (Type G).
• Power Bank: A portable charger is invaluable for keeping your devices powered.
• Unlocked Smartphone: For a local SIM card (Vodacom, Airtel, or Zantel).
• Headlamp or Flashlight: Useful during power outages or evening beach walks.
• Underwater Camera or GoPro: Perfect for capturing snorkeling and diving adventures.

6. Outdoor and Adventure Gear

• Snorkeling Gear: While equipment is often provided on tours, bringing your own ensures better fit and hygiene.
• Dry Bag: Keeps your belongings safe during water activities.
• Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated while reducing plastic waste.

7. Snacks and Specialty Items

If you have specific dietary preferences or snack cravings, bring them along, as options can be limited:

• Protein Bars: Great for on-the-go energy.
• Specialty Foods: Items like plant-based snacks, gluten-free products, or favorite spices might be hard to find.

8. Cash and Travel Essentials

• US Dollars: Widely accepted, especially for tours and accommodations.
• Tanzanian Shillings: Useful for local markets and smaller transactions.

• Travel Insurance: Cover for health, cancellations, and electronics.
• Copies of Important Documents: Passport, visa, and travel insurance printed and stored digitally.

9. Respectful and Sustainable Items

• Reusable Shopping Bags: Plastic bags are banned in Tanzania, so bring a tote or reusable bag.
• Eco-Friendly Toiletries: Avoid products with harmful chemicals that can affect marine ecosystems.
• Travel-Friendly Laundry Kit: A small packet of detergent and a travel clothesline can be a lifesaver for longer stays.

10. Don’t Forget Your Sense of Adventure!

While it’s important to pack smart, remember that Zanzibar is a place of laid-back charm. Some unexpected discoveries or minor inconveniences might be part of the adventure—embrace them!

By packing thoughtfully, you’ll be fully prepared to enjoy Zanzibar’s beauty and culture without worrying about missing essentials. Safe travels and see you in paradise!

Forgot to pack something? Travelers can purchase essentials from a variety of locations. Here’s a guide to help:

Zanzibar (General)

1. Stone Town:
   • Darajani Market: A bustling local market offering fresh produce, spices, and everyday essentials.
   • Shops and Mini-Marts: Around Shangani and Kenyatta Road, you’ll find small supermarkets and general stores for toiletries, snacks, and other basics.
   • Modern Supermarkets: Look for Shoppers Plaza or Nakumatt-style supermarkets for a wider range of goods.
2. Shopping Malls:
   • Mbweni Supermarket and other malls near Stone Town may cater to tourists with imported goods.

Paje:

1. Local Shops: Small convenience stores (“dukas”) in Paje sell basic items such as bottled water, snacks, and toiletries.
2. Supermarkets: Mini-Marts in Paje Village – There are a few larger convenience stores in the Paje area, catering to both locals and tourists.
3. Tourist-Oriented Shops: Many beachfront hotels and guesthouses have small shops selling sunscreen, swimsuits, and other beach essentials. Stores in and around Paje Beach often stock snacks, beverages, and travel necessities.
4. Fresh Markets: Local markets in Paje sell fresh fruits, vegetables, and sometimes seafood.

Shopping Tips for Travelers:

• Currency: Most shops accept Tanzanian Shillings (TZS); some accept USD but may not give the best exchange rate.
• Specialty Items: For niche items like sunscreen or international brands, Stone Town (ie The Town Supermarket) might have better options than areas like Paje.
• Pharmacies: Look for pharmacies in Paje or head to Stone Town for a broader selection.