Packing for a Corbett safari is less about volume and more about the right small set of things — most trips fall apart on a couple of easily avoidable gaps.
Clothing first: stick to neutral, earth-toned colours rather than bright or white clothing, which stands out against the forest. Mornings can be genuinely cold in an open jeep, even in a season that feels warm by midday, so pack layers you can shed as the sun comes up.
For gear, a decent pair of binoculars matters more than people expect — you'll use them far more than a camera. If you are bringing a camera, a zoom lens is worth the extra weight; jeeps can't get close to most animals, and won't try to.
Practical essentials: sunscreen, insect repellent, a refillable water bottle, and a valid photo ID, since permits are checked against ID at the gate. A small power bank is useful too — charging points aren't always easy to find once you're out at a forest lodge.
What to leave behind: strong perfume or deodorant, loud colours, and anything that jingles or rattles. None of it helps your chances, and all of it can work against you.