Baggage Storage

Why Baggage Storage Matters on Safari

If you have flown into a bush airstrip in Southern Africa, you already know the reality: luggage restrictions are strict and non-negotiable. Most light aircraft operating into remote safari destinations enforce a 15 to 20 kilogram soft-bag limit per passenger. Hard-shell suitcases are not permitted. Oversized bags, extra shopping, and heavy winter clothing simply cannot come along for the ride.

This creates a practical problem for travellers who arrive at OR Tambo or Cape Town International with full luggage from an international or domestic flight, only to discover they need to pare down significantly before connecting to their bush charter. It is equally common for guests returning from safari to have time between their arrival and their onward flight — time during which they need a safe, reliable place to leave their belongings.

We recommend our passengers make use of A-Teck, the airport baggage services provider operating at both OR Tambo and Cape Town International airports.

About A-Teck

A-Teck is a specialist terminal solutions provider offering a range of baggage services at South African airports. Their services include:

• Baggage storage (Store-Teck) — Secure shelved storage for bags of any size, charged per bag per day. Ideal for storing excess luggage while you fly light on safari.
• Baggage wrapping (Wrap-Teck) — Protective wrapping to guard against scratching, moisture, dirt, and tampering during transit.
• Baggage weighing (Weigh-Teck) — Weigh your bags before check-in to avoid surprises at the counter.
• Porterage (Porter-Teck) — Assistance with transporting luggage through the terminal.

Where to Find A-Teck

OR Tambo International Airport — Basement Level 1, one level below International Arrivals. After clearing immigration, baggage claim, and customs, head toward the terminal exit and take the elevator down one floor. A-Teck is at the end of the passage on the left.

Cape Town International Airport — Ground floor of Parkade 2.

Both locations are landside, so they are accessible before and after clearing security. We recommend contacting A-Teck directly to confirm current operating hours and rates, as these can change.

Common Scenarios

Baggage storage is useful in a wide range of travel situations common among Southern African charter clients:

• International arrivals heading to the bush — Guests flying in from Europe, the UK, or the Americas typically arrive with full-size suitcases and winter coats. Store excess luggage at A-Teck, repack into soft bags, and connect to your bush charter travelling light.
• Multi-leg safari itineraries — On a flying safari covering multiple lodges, travel ultra-light for the bush legs and collect your stored bags at the end of the trip.
• Business travellers combining work and leisure — Business suits, laptops, and briefcases can stay safely stored while you enjoy the bush in khakis.
• Between-flight layovers — If you have time between flights, store your bags and relax in a Slow Lounge while you wait.

Luggage Restrictions on Bush Flights

Understanding why baggage storage exists requires understanding the aircraft that operate into remote airstrips. The Cessna Caravan, Pilatus PC-12, King Air 200, and similar turboprops that service lodges in the Kruger region, Okavango Delta, and Kalahari typically enforce the following:

• Maximum 15–20 kg per passenger in a soft-sided bag
• No hard-shell suitcases (they do not fit in the aircraft cargo area)
• Camera bags and handbags count toward total weight
• Excess weight may require an additional seat purchase or a second rotation

These are not arbitrary rules. They are dictated by aircraft performance limitations on short, unpaved airstrips at altitude in hot conditions. Exceeding weight limits is a safety issue, not a policy preference. Storing excess luggage before your bush flight is the practical, safe solution.

Why Soft Bags Are Essential

Unlike commercial jets with large cargo holds, most charter aircraft store luggage in a limited space within the cabin or in a compact rear cargo area. The PC-12, for example, has a conical-shaped cargo compartment that simply cannot accommodate rigid suitcases. Soft-sided bags are required for three reasons:

• Ergonomics — Soft bags can be shaped and compressed to fit into the irregular cargo spaces found on smaller aircraft. Hard-shell cases often cannot physically fit, regardless of their size.
• Safety — Hard bags that cannot be secured in the cargo area may need to be stowed in the cabin. In turbulence, an unsecured hard case becomes a dangerous projectile. Soft bags can be safely secured and absorb impact.
• Civil Aviation Law — Unsecured luggage in the cabin is a breach of aviation regulations. Civil Aviation inspectors can conduct ramp inspections at any time, and non-compliance carries heavy fines or suspension of the operator's licence. The pilot in command has the final say and may refuse to load any luggage that cannot be safely stowed.

If you are flying with us, store your hard cases at A-Teck before your departure and travel with soft bags only. We will confirm the specific baggage allowance for your aircraft when we quote.

Complementary Services

Baggage storage works best as part of a seamless travel experience. Angel Gabriel clients frequently combine it with our other ground and air services:

• VIP Airport Assistance — Menzies VIP meet and greet, fast-tracked security and immigration at OR Tambo and Cape Town International.
• Airport Shuttles & Road Transfers — Door-to-door transfers between airports and Johannesburg hotels.
• Private Charters — Bespoke charter flights to any destination in Southern Africa.

When you request a charter quote, let us know if you will need baggage storage and we can advise on the best approach for your itinerary.