The thought of packing for your trip can strike terror into the hearts of even the most seasoned travellers, especially when there are young children involved. But, with a comprehensive list of what you want to include in your luggage as well as some research into the place to which you’re going and the seasons you can expect, you can conquer this ugly monster.
Here are some ways to make the packing process much easier
- Be sure you know your luggage allowance for the aeroplane, bus or train
- Collect everything you want to take with you and lay it out on your bed or the floor. Then, be realistic and get rid of everything that you probably won’t need. Be ruthless. Fold it neatly to see if it will, reasonably, fit in your permitted luggage.
- Pack your shoes sole down in the bottom of your suitcase. The next layer should be your socks and underwear that are arranged in rectangular-shaped bundles until you’ve created a flat surface. Then, arrange your neatly folded clothing on top. Delicate items should be the last layer before you close your suitcase. Books can line the outer edges of your bags and electronic goods should be well padded amongst your clothing.
- Pack your toiletries in plastic bags
- Wear your heaviest and bulkiest items of clothing while you travel (as long as they are comfortable, of course)
- Ensure that your luggage is within the weight limit before leaving home
- Put a basic change of clothes in your hand luggage as well as all travel documents and any medication you may need, in case your luggage is lost
- Carry something to entertain yourself (and your children, if applicable) for the duration of the journey
In terms of what to pack, here are some essentials
- A variety of clothing, including a waterproof jacket and a fleece top, regardless of how warm you expect the weather to be
- A swimming costume, just in case
- Pyjamas
- A pair of comfy shoes as well as a pair of more formal ones
- A tie or scarf
- A money belt to hide your money underneath your clothes when walking around the destination
- Copies of your tickets, ID books, VISA, passport, prescriptions and other essential documentation. Leave the originals at the hotel for their safety
- Fresh water
- Your mobile phone and charger
- Earplugs for the trip
- Nail clippers and tweezers
- A very basic first aid kit
- A spare set of glasses or contact lenses, if possible
- Sunscreen and UV-resistant sunglasses
- Plug adaptors if travelling outside of South Africa
- Travel information and a map
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