The festive season is upon us, and for many South Africans, that means a chance to pack our bags and hit the road for a well-deserved getaway. Whether you’re heading to the coast, enjoying a bush escape, or visiting family in another province, being prepared makes all the difference. Here’s our list of travel must-haves for happy and stress-free holiday travels. to keep your holiday stress-free and full of cheer.
The right luggage
Investing in durable, lightweight luggage can save you time and effort – and make you look even more stylish on your journey. If you’re flying, choose a lockable, sturdy suitcase with wheels for easy movement through the airport. For road trips, a duffel bag or travel backpack is a great option, offering flexibility and squishability if you boot space is limited.
Travel documents & essentials
Don’t forget your ID, driver’s license, and travel tickets or booking confirmations. If you’re going overseas, double-check that your passport is valid and that you have the necessary visas for each country you’ll be visiting. A compact document holder is a great way to keep all your travel documents together.
Smart packing: Essentials only
Pack for the climate at your destination, not where you’re departing from! Light clothing is best for beach holidays, while layers will keep you warm and comfortable during chilly mountain mornings and evenings. Remember a versatile pair of shoes, a swimsuit, and a hat. Roll your clothes to save space and reduce wrinkles – after all, you might be a tourist, but you don’t want to look like one!
Tech & gadgets
- Portable Charger: Nothing kills the vibe like a dead phone battery. A power bank means you’ll always have enough juice to take pictures and stream your road trip playlist.
- Adapter: If you’re traveling internationally, ensure you have the correct plug adapter for overseas voltages.
- Headphones: For in-flight entertainment or to drown out road trip noise, a good pair of noise-canceling headphones is a great companion. And no, we don’t mean the free ones that come in the little envelope.
Travel-friendly toiletries
Opt for travel-sized toiletries and eco-friendly items like solid shampoo bars. Don’t forget sunscreen to keep you safe from the South African summer sun, hand sanitiser, and a mini first-aid kit for any unexpected bumps and scrapes.
Padkos & a water bottle
A refillable water bottle will help you stay hydrated, and snacks like biltong, dried fruit, or energy bars are great for keeping hunger at bay.
Entertainment & reading material
Whether it’s a gripping novel, a crossword puzzle book, or your favorite playlist, having entertainment on hand can make even the longest journey simply fly by.
A handy day bag
Once you’ve arrived, you’ll need a small bag for day trips or excursions. A lightweight, foldable backpack or crossbody bag is ideal for keeping essentials like sunscreen, a water bottle, and your phone within reach.
Travel Insurance
It may not be a tangible item, but travel insurance is a must-have. It provides peace of mind in case of trip cancellations, lost luggage, or medical emergencies.
Local touches
Support local businesses by using a guidebook or app to explore the best of South Africa. Whether it’s a secret coffee shop in the Karoo or the best hiking trail in the Drakensberg, discovering these hidden gems can enrich your holiday experience.
The festive season is a time to unwind and make memories, and being well-prepared ensures you can focus on what matters most. With our top tips for travel must-haves, you’ll be ready to enjoy South Africa’s stunning landscapes and vibrant culture to the fullest, or make the most of your time overseas.
Safe travels and happy holidays!
