Packing for a holiday? Whether you’re heading to the beach, the bush or abroad, the last thing you want is to be caught off-guard by one of life’s little surprises…especially if it means having to improvise on the fly. Most of us remember the obvious – chargers, swimwear, the usual. But there are a few compact, handy items that should not be overlooked as they can be absolute lifesavers when it counts.
Shaun Lamont, Managing Director of First Group Hotels and Resorts, is no stranger to travelling. “Packing smart means maximising the versatility of the items you select,” he advises. “By including a few cleverly selected articles that serve multiple purposes, you can pack light while still preparing for the unexpected – turning potential travel challenges into minor inconveniences at worst.”
Here are 5 genius items that take up virtually no space and could just save the day:
1. Sarong: The Ultimate All-Rounder
Lightweight and endlessly useful, a sarong is the most underrated travel item, serving as much more than just a swimwear accessory. Turn it into a buff while running, a wrap on chilly nights, a beach towel, picnic blanket, makeshift dress/skirt, or privacy curtain in shared spaces. It also works as a sun-protecting head wrap, travel pillow, or emergency sling. And when you’re really being tested? It’ll even mop up spills or cover up your belongings when it starts to rain.
And to the men rolling their eyes right now; don’t worry – you don’t need to rock a floral number on the beach. Just ask your wife or partner to pack a neutral-coloured sarong. You’ll end up using it more than you think. You’re welcome.
2. Power Bank with Built-In Flashlight: Your Pocket-Sized LifelineA dead phone at the wrong moment can turn a relaxing holiday into a stressful nightmare; especially when you’re relying on digital tickets, GPS, or a ride-hailing app. A power bank keeps you connected, but a version with a built-in flashlight is next-level smart. Whether you’re stumbling through a blackout, trying to unlock your door in the dark, or hunting for that one tiny item lost in the dark recesses of a bag, this clever little dual-purpose gadget has your back, delivering when it matters most.
3. Blade-Free Multi-Tool: Tiny Tool, Big Impact
Forget the bulky Swiss Army knives; most of them can’t travel in your carry-on bag. Instead, opt for a TSA-approved blade-free multi-tool that packs a punch. Think mini scissors, screwdrivers, bottle openers, tweezers, nail files, and even a phone stand, all in a compact device that fits on your keyring or in your toiletry bag. Perfect for fixing a wobbly suitcase wheel, snipping off that pesky tag, or popping open a beverage while watching the sunset. It has multiple uses when you don’t have regular tools nearby.
4. Duct Tape: The Travel Fixer You Didn’t Know You Needed
This might sound like a MacGyver-level hack, but many holidaymakers swear by it and for good reason. Wrap a metre or two of duct tape around a pen or old bank card, and you’ve got yourself a lightweight emergency kit in your bag. Use it as a quick interim fix for torn backpacks, luggage or shoes, to seal toiletry bottles, reinforce strollers or even tape down power cords in a hotel room.
5. Ziplock Bags: The Unsung Hero of Organisation
Waterproof, airtight, transparent, and reusable – ziplock bags are the unsung MVPs of any holiday. These luggage space-saving heroes organise toiletries, store snacks, protect electronics, separate small items, and are great for wet costumes and cushioning fragile belongings. Plus, they’re TSA-approved for liquids.
“These items might seem ordinary, but their practical value while travelling can be remarkable,” notes Lamont. “After years in the hospitality industry at First Group, I’ve learned that clever packing can make a huge difference and these compact tools can help to address common travel frustrations. So, before you zip up that suitcase or weekend bag, make room for these tiny heroes so you can focus on making lasting, magical moments,” he concludes.
For more information about First Group resorts, visit https://www.firstgroup-sa.co.za