MileHacker Logo
What to Pack & Bring

What to Pack & Bring

Togo

Clothing Recommendations

Lomé's tropical savanna climate dictates a specific approach to clothing. Expect consistent heat and high humidity year-round. Your wardrobe choices should prioritize comfort, breathability, and cultural sensitivity.

Year-Round Essentials

  • Lightweight, breathable fabrics: cotton, linen, moisture-wicking synthetics. Avoid heavy denim.
  • Daytime: Loose-fitting shorts, skirts, dresses, light t-shirts or blouses. Consider light colors.
  • Evenings: Light long-sleeved shirt and long pants useful for mosquito protection.

Cultural Dress Code

Togo is generally a conservative country. Observing local dress customs shows respect. Dressing modestly is good practice, specifically when visiting religious sites, traditional markets, or interacting with local communities.

Modesty Guidelines

  • For women: Avoid overly revealing clothing. Keep shoulders and knees covered (dresses/skirts below knee, blouses covering shoulders). A Light scarf helps cover your head when entering mosques.
  • For men: Trousers or longer shorts (bermudas) are suitable. T-shirts or collared shirts are appropriate.
  • Religious Sites: Ensure both men and women have shoulders and knees covered.

Footwear Recommendations

General City Walking

Comfortable sandals, flip-flops, or breathable Walking shoes are ideal. Lomé’s streets can be uneven.

Flat, sturdy footwear is important.

Outdoor Activities

If your itinerary includes nature walks or exploring challenging terrain (e.g., around Kpalimé waterfalls), sturdy closed-toe shoes or Hiking sandals offer better support and protection.

Consider terrain for stability.

Activity Specific

Beach/Swimming: Swimsuits are acceptable at hotel pools and on public beaches. Consider a cover-up for walking. Water shoes if exploring rocky coastal areas.

Comfort and protection for water.

Essential Documents

Critical Papers for Travel

Keeping your documents organized and secure is of utmost importance for any international trip, specifically to Lomé. These items are your gateway to the country and help ensure smooth travel.

  • Passport and Visa Documentation: Carry your original passport and any physical visa. For e-visa, print approval letter. Make several copies (digital and physical).
  • Travel Insurance Policy: Print a copy of policy details, emergency contacts, and policy numbers. Keep a digital copy.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP): If driving, you need an IDP in addition to your national license. Obtain before leaving home.
  • Vaccination Records: Original Yellow Fever vaccination certificate (ICVP) is mandatory for entry. Keep it with your passport.
  • Health Documentation: Carry documentation for other recommended vaccinations and a list of prescription medications with doctor's notes, specifically for controlled substances.
  • Reservation Copies: Have printed and digital copies of flight itinerary, hotel reservations, and pre-booked tours.
  • Emergency Contacts: Compile a list of important phone numbers: embassy, family, travel insurance, local emergency services. Keep digital and paper copies.
  • IDs for Discounts: Student/senior/press IDs might occasionally offer reduced entry fees at certain attractions or museums.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Staying connected and powered up is a common concern for travelers. Lomé offers modern conveniences, but preparing your electronics helps ensure you make the most of them.

Details

  • Power Adapter: Togo uses 220-240V, 50Hz. Plug Types C and E. A multi-country or Type C/E Power adapter is necessary.
  • Mobile Phone: Lomé uses GSM. Unlocked smartphones use local Prepaid SIM cards (Moov Africa Togo, Togocel). Passport needed for registration.
  • Portable Chargers: Power outages can occur. A Portable power bank is highly recommended.

Media & Apps

Capturing memories and navigating efficiently are . These items assist your journey.

Tips

  • Camera Equipment: Consider a lightweight Mirrorless camera or good smartphone. Extra batteries and memory cards. Be respectful when photographing people.
  • Recommended Apps: Download offline maps (Maps.me/Google Maps). Google Translate (French pack) for offline use. WhatsApp is widely used.
  • Data Backup: Regularly back up photos and documents to cloud storage or a small Portable hard drive.

Connectivity & Security

VPN Services

Consider a VPN for internet security, especially on public Wi-Fi. NordVPN and ExpressVPN are options. Airalo can assist with eSIMs.

Electronics Retailers

Finding specific camera accessories or advanced electronics locally might be difficult. B&H Photo stocks a wide range.

Device Compatibility

Most modern electronics are dual voltage (100-240V), requiring only a Plug adapter. For single-voltage devices, a Voltage converter may be needed.

Health & Wellness Items

Personal First Aid & Meds

A well-stocked personal health kit is a smart addition to your luggage. While pharmacies exist in Lomé, having your preferred brands or specific medications provides peace of mind. Adventure Medical Kits supplies options.

Kit Contents

Sun & Insect Protection

Essentials

Other Health Considerations

Over-the-Counter Meds

Personal Hygiene

Activity-Specific Equipment

Photography Gear

Extra batteries, chargers, and memory cards for your camera equipment.

  • A Dry bag or Waterproof cover protects electronics from rain or sand.
  • Respectful photography is ; ask permission.
  • High-quality or specific camera items are limited locally.
  • Bring your own trusted equipment.

Hiking Essentials

If venturing outside Lomé to areas like Kpalimé with varied terrain.

General Travel Gear

Your standard Travel gear will suffice for most experiences.

  • No specific specialty items are uniquely required for general tourism in Lomé.
  • It is advisable to bring your own personal gear.
  • Rental options for high-quality items are very limited.
  • Bring items you rely on and know the quality of.

Rent vs. Buy Considerations

Consider Bringing

  • Cameras and specialized footwear (rental quality is limited).
  • High-quality sunscreens and specific over-the-counter medications.
  • Advanced electronics accessories.
  • Specialty dietary foods, if needed.

Consider Renting Limited Availability

  • Bicycles: Some hotels might offer, but quality varies.
  • Motorcycles/Scooters: Not recommended for tourists due to safety risks.
  • Larger equipment: Assess need based on specific activity and local offerings.
  • Assess quality and maintenance before rental.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

Beyond the obvious, some often-overlooked items greatly improve your travel comfort and security.

Essentials

Things to Know About Local Availability

Some items are difficult or expensive to purchase locally.

What to Bring from Home

  • High-quality sunscreens.
  • Specific over-the-counter medications (Western brands).
  • Advanced electronics accessories.
  • Specialty dietary foods.

Sustainability & Preparation

Reusable Water Bottle

Reduces plastic waste.

Reusable Shopping Bag

Useful for market purchases.

Travel Utensils

Handy for street food.

General Travel Preparedness

No specific unique items required.

Final Packing Reminders

Document Safeguards

  • Keep photocopies of passport, visa, and vaccination certificate separate from originals.
  • Store digital copies in a secure cloud service.
  • This practice assists if originals are lost or stolen.

Adapt to Climate

  • Pack for humid, tropical conditions.
  • Include sun and insect protection.
  • Footwear for uneven surfaces.

Packing Smart

Thoughtfully curate your packing list to prepare for the climate, culture, and activities Lomé offers.