Unexpected Essentials to Pack for your Holiday

Posted on 5 December 2023 By Nomvelo Masango

It’s holiday season, and preparing for a trip involves meticulous planning.

Indeed, being prepared for the unexpected is the mark of a savvy adventurer.

However, while the focus is often on essentials, there are also minor items which are unsung heroes and can easily turn a challenging situation into a manageable one.

Image: Supplied

‘How often have you found yourself on holiday muttering the words, ‘If only I had known’,  comments Bronwyn Ragavan, brand manager for Milton.

‘There are many items that we never think of packing but unfortunately soon discover that they would have come in handy’.

While it is advisable not to overpack, Ragavan suggests eight items that should be added to the checklist when packing:

A travel-sized sewing kit

An unexpected wardrobe malfunction can easily throw a wrench into your holiday plans. Packing a small sewing kit with needles, thread, and safety pins can save the day when you are faced with a torn seam or a loose button, ensuring your outfit remains intact for your adventures.

Mini first aid kit

Although nobody wants to use a first aid kit while on holiday, accidents happen and a compact one can come in handy.

Band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers can address minor injuries and headaches, providing quick relief when you least expect it.

A decongestant

A different location can cause allergies to flare up. Packing a decongestant can help ease these symptoms.

Karvol capsules are perfect for alleviating congestion and leaving you feeling your best on holiday. They include aromatic oils such as eucalyptus, camphor, thymol, lavender and menthol which when released work together to help with the symptoms of congestion, providing easy breathing and a clear head.

Sterilising tablets
When travelling to a new location, you may want to sterilise your drinking water.

Milton tablets are small and compact, making it easy to take with you on holiday or even on a hike. They kill 99,9% of germs, including bacteria associated with water-borne diseases.


Reusable water bottle

Whether you’re hiking through nature or exploring a bustling city, staying hydrated remains essential.

Refill your water bottle and stay refreshed at all times without spending unnecessary money on bottled water.

Portable phone charger

In today’s digital age, the last thing you want is an uncharged phone battery.

A portable charger can be your saviour when you least expect it.

If you are able to charge your device, you remain connected, navigate unfamiliar places, and even capture unforgettable moments.

Washing powder

A simple spill can result in a stain on your favourite clothing item. However, packing a large bag of washing powder is not always convenient.

Personal Touch Washing Powder Sheets are the perfect travel companion, as the A5 90g box is easy to transport and offers 18 washes. It is perfect for both auto and hand washing – so no matter where you are, there is always an option for clean clothes.

Ziplock bags

From protecting your electronics during sudden rain showers to keeping your snacks fresh, ziplock bags have many uses. They are simple yet surprisingly handy, and thus deserve a place in your luggage.

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