Phil Nolan, an adventurer based in Dubai and co-founder of a Ugandan tour company, shares the essential travel gear that takes him from wildlife safaris to the highest peaks in Africa.
A former British military officer with a decade of experience in Dubai's Security Risk & Crisis Management industry, Phil is no stranger to demanding environments. In 2023, he co-founded Wildlife Adventure Safaris with his Ugandan business partner, creating a leading Adventure Tour and Destination Management Company operating in Uganda and Rwanda. Specialising in unforgettable experiences like gorilla trekking and classic Big 5 wildlife safaris, they have guided Adventurers from across the globe, including Switzerland, Poland, UK and the UAE.
Pushing the boundaries of exploration, Phil and his experienced team recently launched one of their most challenging packages yet: a seven-day expedition to the summit of Margherita Peak (5,109m) on Mt Stanley - the highest point in Uganda and the third-highest on the African continent.
Whether he's on a business-related adventure or tackling the next mountain on his bucket list, Phil relies on a core set of gear.
Here are the ten travel items Phil simply won't leave home without
Garmin Fenix 7X
As well as being an eye-catching time-piece, the Fenix 7X is my go-to for GPS navigation and fitness tracking. It’s incredibly reliable and its solar-charging battery gives me confidence when I’m on multi-day adventures.
From SAR4346 (on sale)
Buy yours here
Oakley Sunglasses (Holbrook)
Essential for protecting my eyes whilst I’m driving, hiking, trail running or relaxing on the beach.
From SAR700
Buy yours here
Patagonia Men's R1 Air Fleece Full-Zip Hoody
The R1 from Patagonia is the perfect versatile mid-layer, providing warmth without bulk, and can be layered effortlessly in changing temperatures. I also use it as a travel pillow on flights.
From SAR750
Buy yours here
The North Face Duffel Bag - Large
This duffel is known for its durability and weather resistance, ensuring all my essential gear stays safe and secure, no matter where I am.
From SAR750
Buy yours here
Apple AirTag
Placing the AirTag inside my duffel bag allows me to track it while travelling, giving me peace of mind. This is particularly useful when I have tight flight connections. On one trip to Angola, it helped airport ground staff quickly locate my lost bag.
Price SAR139 (for one) or SAR469 (for four)
Buy yours here
Vortex Optics Crossfire HD (10 x 42) Binoculars
Vortex produce high-quality optics and having these robust binoculars to hand ensures that I never miss a detail, whether it’s spotting an elusive animal on safari or appreciating the details of the landscape.
From SAR870 or $230
Buy yours here
DJI Osmo Pocket 3
Osmo Pocket 3 is my solution for capturing high-quality, stabilised footage of my experiences without being weighed down by cumbersome and expensive camera equipment.
Prices vary depending on retailing, starting from SAR2500
Check out more here
Garmin InReach Mini 2
InReach Mini 2 is non-negotiable for safety and connectivity when I'm off the grid. I use this to keep in immediate contact with my team, clients, and loved ones, no matter where I am.
Prices from $350 or SAR1300
Buy yours here
Birkenstock Arizona Eva
Birkenstocks are unbeatable for comfort and practicality, making them the perfect footwear for relaxing after a long day on the trail or while exploring a new town. This Arizona Eva style are light, durable, and won’t get damaged by water.
Price SAR319
Buy yours here
Nivea Sunscreen UV Anti-Age Q10 Cream SPF 50
Having had a skin cancer scare, protecting my skin from sun damage is a top priority. Nivea's Factor 50 face sunscreen is always in my bag for regular daily use and especially for any outdoor activity.
From SAR35
Buy yours here
Interested in booking your own adventure with Wildlife Adventure Safaris?
wildlifeadventureuganda.com
@wildlifeadventureuganda
@honeybadgerinchief
