The Ultimate Survival Kit for a Trip to Ghana

As you already know, I'm #teamGhana so it is only fair that I share some survival tips for a trip to Ghana. If you are planning on taking a trip to Ghana, this is the perfect post for you and if you aren't, please get to planning!

I think the most important tip is having an open mind! Every country has different cultures that you may not be used to. However, in order to be a succesful traveler you should have an open mind. Ghanaians are very hospitable and welcoming and honestly sometimes you may be overwhlemed by the reception. Just bask in the love and acceptance because they truly do mean it! Just be vigilant and pay attention to your surroundings.

Be open to trying new delicacies. Prepare to eat with your fingers at some point during the trip! Yes, some Ghanaian meals are best eaten without cutlery. The point of the trip is to have a new experience right?

Now, music is definitely a huge part of the Ghanaian culture. With that said, bring your "dancing shoes" and be ready to bust a move at any time. This could happen as randomnly as waiting in line for a plate of food you've ordered, walking down the street, hearing live reggae tunes at the beach (La Pleasure/ Labadi Beach is well known for this), getting a haircut or having a night out on the town!

You'll need a good amount of cash during your stay. You would want to indulge in some shopping, good food, sightseeing and thrilling nightlife. I'd rather you have money in surplus than run out during your trip.

Speaking of money, this may be the most difficult tip yet. Bargain bargain bargain! This is the only way you'd get items at a fair price. Unfortunately, Ghanaian vendors tend to hike prices for tourists. You have to speak up and work out a comfortable price for yourself. Otherwise, you will easily get ripped off. This is a trick even Ghanaians have had to learn in order to survive the marketplace dynamic. My mum is a pro at this. She somehow manages to walk away with the item for half the initial price or less leaving me stunned!

Additionally, please keep your left hand to yourself. Try not to use it in any interaction or transaction. A major part of the Ghanaian culture is respect. The left hand is viewed as "filthy" since it is the hand used to clean up after potty breaks and handle unpleasant things. I know this sounds strange and may be an ardous task for a tourist but please be intentional about it. You just don't want to step on any toes.

​Now let's talk travel necessities:

Mosquito/ Insect repellent

Some painkillers and antacids (if you like to take specific brands of medicines)

Sunscreen to protect your skin from the high temperatures.

​A good variety of shorts, sun dresses, tank tops, sun glasses, hand fan and bathing suits. Ghana is a very warm country and Ghanaians love beach days.

A fanny pack so you can keep your valuables safe and close. Pickpocketing is real y'all!

​This is a simple list I decided to put together just to help potential tourists.

Thanks for stopping by.

Until next time,

Be you, do you, stay you

Adwoa.