For my first adventure away from home which was in Germany in 1999 I brought things that now make me look back and laugh like CDs and a CD Walkman. Sounds crackers now but since that Walkman and other useless items were on my back for months I have learned it is important to take to Madagascar only the tried and tested things I am really going to use.

So, what to take to Madagascar? There are certain things that are classed as essentials and the other bits are an optional add on. Travel essentials to take to Madagascar are:

• Strong sun cream
• Sunglasses with UV protection (I brought 2 pairs)
• Water purification tablets (if hiking in national parks)
• Good sun hat
• Rain proof jacket
• Fleece or warm top
• Adaptors for electrical equipment
• Waterproof backpack cover (bag may be on top of buses/trucks)
• Insect repellent
• Medication

I brought 2 bags with me, one was my backpack and the other a little pack which I used for hikes and to keep my valuables. The coastal and lower land regions are warm all year round and it only really gets chilly in the highland areas like Fianarantsoa and the surrounding national parks. Clothes wise I would pack more shorts and nylon t shirts than anything else. Walking or hiking in the heat means you want something that you can wash and dry quickly and put on again next day if you need to. These types of materials are really useful on longer hikes as they are lightweight and fit easily in a little pack allowing the big bag to be stored somewhere until you get back.

Spare batteries or a battery power pack may be useful for longer times away from civilisation when you are hiking in one of the national parks.

There are a whole host of non essential things which can be packed but before packing it ask yourself how likely you are to use it and how often. This is not army training and hauling around unnecessary weight in the heat will soon become a nuisance. It is worth remembering that all cities and larger towns have markets where it is possible to buy clothes and even some of the essential things you may have forgotten. Things that may be particularly difficult to source include good sunglasses, sun cream and insect repellent. The sun can be really strong and you don’t want to spend the trip roasted to a crisp while squinting through eyes that have been blinded by the sun.

If you are planning a trip feel free contact me with any questions you may have and I will do my best to help.