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travel tips

20 top travel tips from seasoned travellers

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Every traveller knows the pitfalls of an unplanned trip. While travelling on holiday to an exotic location may be an explosion of excitement, being forearmed with travel tips from the well-travelled lessens the sting of stress. Here are 20 top travel tips to consider:

1. Have a check list before you pack of all the ESSENTIAL items you will require whilst travelling.
2. Take out travel insurance. Secure yourself and your valuables against unforeseen misfortunes.
3. Valuables including jewellery, expensive digital equipment and money, traveller’s cheques, etc should ALWAYS be kept out of sight no matter which destination you head off to.
4. Have a good night’s sleep and hydrate by drinking lots of water the night before you are due to fly out.
5. The quickest way to endear yourself to the locals is to use their language. It helps in transforming an apathetic attitude into a congenial one. Equipped in common phrases such as ‘please’, ‘thank you’, ‘yes’, ‘no’, ‘sorry’ in the local language will promote you in getting better service or assistance.
6. The best time to pack for travel is after doing the laundry. This helps in giving you maximum choice in choosing what to pack.
7. Clothes that don’t require ironing is preferable.
8. The key word when it comes to packing clothing for travel is COMFORTABLE.
9. The moment you think of something you need to pack, the travel-size sewing kit for example, pack it or add it to your things to pack list immediately.
10. Take pre-packed snacks such as nuts, dried fruit or cereal bars along. They will always come in handy no matter where you are, be it trekking across the Sahara or squatting on the uncomfortable airport chair during a long stop over.
11. Be an eco traveller. Use a refillable water bottle for your drinking water needs.
12. As a cautionary measure, make photocopies or scan and email copies to yourself and family or friends of passports (front and back) and other important documents as well as credit cards before embarking on your travel.
13. Window seats on an airplane may be handy for laying your head against, but aisle seats are more convenient for those without big bladders and their nearest neighbours.
14. For those that suffer from motion sickness, a combination drink of half ginger ale and half club soda is helpful in overcoming nausea.
15. Have a handy pack of travel tissues; toilet paper may not be available in certain places around the world.
16. Be sure to stand stretch aching muscles from time to time using the aisle during long-haul flights.
17. Turn your mobile phone into a multifunction gadget. The camera function can be used to ‘take notes’ of nametags, destination signs or restaurant names. Taking a photo of your luggage is a good idea should you have the misfortune of it going missing. A picture is worth more than words can describe.
18. Carry-on luggage should include a change of lightweight clothes.
19. Work your way out of jetlag and sleepless travel by exercising. Cardiovascular exercise works well.
20. Alert your credit card company of your travel intentions. Note down customer care and helpline numbers.

Take in the glory and the glamour of gorgeous George on the Garden Route

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The gorgeous town of George is found in the centre of the Garden Route along the eastern coastline of South Africa. This charming landmark of abundant natural beauty comprising of fertile valleys, forests and rivers is exquisitely framed by the majestic Outeniqua Mountains and lay on the doorstep of the Indian Ocean is unfailing in its attractions to both local and foreign visitors.

A holidaymaker’s staple of sun, sea and sand is found in abundance in the coastal tourist paradise of George. The town’s humble origins, which began in 1811 as a settlement and labelled by the local inhabitants as the ‘land of milk and honey’, transformed itself into a present-day colossal tourist haven, housing not one, but two of the top ten golf courses in South Africa – Fancourt Golf Estate and the George Golf Course.

The temperate weather conditions enjoyed by the locals establish George as the perfect holiday spot for outdoor adventures to be had all year long. The many adventure activities hosted by this tourist hub in the Southern Cape Region holidaymaker’s paradise include: fishing, hang-gliding, diving, water skiing, hiking, cycling, mountain biking, horseback riding, canoeing, climbing, sailing, windsurfing and surfing.

For the more laid back nature lovers, George provides excellent opportunities for bird and whale watching.

The town is within an easy 420 km from the city of Cape Town and just 320 km from Port Elizabeth. It has a few historic claims to fame too. George is the sixth oldest town in South Africa and named after the British monarch, King George the Third. This nature-rich hotspot is also regarded as the administrative capital city of the southern Cape region.

One of the highlights on a trip to George is a visit to The Outeniqua Transport Museum. Take a step back in time to the splendid steam age and appreciate the extensive cool collection of steam locomotives and carriages conserved in the museum. The Outeniqua Power Van, which comes in the form of a motorized trolley, conveys visitors from the museum to the Outeniqua Mountains where the most spectacular views of the Garden Route can be viewed, and back to the museum again.

A leisurely exploration of the Outeniqua Country Hop Route presents many country pleasures. Family friendly strawberry and herb farms provide plenty of fun; both children and adults can enjoy the wonders of cheese and candle making and there is horseback riding and mountain biking for the more adrenaline-driven adventurists. The Outeniqua Hop Route welcomes visitors with excellent accommodation facilities and restaurants.

The popular Victoria Bay, located about 9 km from George offer a superb surfing spot, especially during the months between June and August. Herold’s Bay is more celebrated for its opportunities of safe tidal pool swimming and fishing. The vast stretches of pretty pristine coastline along Wilderness with its lakes and estuaries favour the perfect place for bird watching.

Facilitated by its sophisticated infrastructure, it is easy to see why this coastal city is a notable stop on a tourist’s itinerary. Why not take in the glory and the glamour of gorgeous George on the Garden Route for your next holiday destination?

Picture Credit: easytobook.com

Wale watching

Be enthralled by the whale-watching extravaganza along South Africa’s coastline

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Whale-watching enthusiasts are in for a spectacular treat when choosing South Africa as their whale-watching destination for both land and sea based viewing. As many as 37 species of whales and dolphins can be clearly seen along South African waters.

South Africa can be regarded as the premier whale-watching destination in the world with plenty of opportunities to be enthralled by the elegant water acrobatics and mesmerising displays of raw power of the whales. The whale-watching route extends from Doringbaai, in the south of Cape Town right up to Durban on the east coast; presenting a staggering 1 200 miles of golden opportunities to see the magnificent mammals in action. This route incorporates the conservation areas of the Garden Route, Tsitsikamma National Park, and the Transkei.

Any high vantage point such as cliffs and the beaches in Cape Town presents excellent whale-watching opportunities. Many established licensed boat tour operators provide services to visitors wishing for that magical special close encounter. Boating expeditions can last up to three hours long and get to within the legal 300 metres (a permit is first required) of the whales. The southern right whale in particular display natural curiosity tendencies and are known to at times venture within close proximity to the boats.

The whale-watching industry is tightly regulated with only 16 permits been granted. This much needed precaution guarantees the least disturbance to the whales. Boat operators approach the whales in a quiet manner, with motors switched off and a ‘no wake speed’.

Between June and November is the optimal whale watching time in South Africa when the southern right whales are highly visible along the Cape south coast. Migrant humpback whales put in a brief appearance in May and June; and then again in November to January in the Plettenberg and Garden Route area. This area also attracts Bryde’s whales which can be seen all-year round.

During July and August is peak calving season when the whales are found in abundance, mating and rearing their calves. The southern right whale prefers the protected bays off the southern western coast as its breeding hub, spending up to five months of a year here engaging in courtship rituals as close to 50 metres from the shoreline.

Regarded as the whale-watching capital of the world, the town of Hermanus found on the Cape south coast, has the most opportune scenic land-based views for whale-watching. A leisurely cliff-top walk grants crystal clear sightings of the marine mammals. Southern right whales can appear as close to mere metres from the beach. The arrival of the whales in September is celebrated by the popular annual whale festival.

Clear and windless conditions promote the best whale spotting experiences. The whale’s blow is the first indication of its presence. Other typical whale behaviour is resting head down in the water with tails held out in the air, known as sailing or headstanding.
Pair of binoculars, a hat and adequate sunscreen is additional requirements for optimal land-based whale-watching expeditions.

Ratanga Junction

South Africa’s top five theme parks promises plenty of fun

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Amusement or theme parks in South Africa go beyond offering just fantastical and frivolous fun; they incorporate educational and historical attractions to provide a more holistic experience the whole family can enjoy. South Africa’s top five theme parks can be found throughout the country and rank highly on the visitor’s list of must-dos.

Fun and learning go well together at South African styled theme parks. Carnival rides including looping rollercoaster rides, bumper cars and big wheels; exhilarating wildlife centred shows to historical attractions form the centrepiece around which these amusement parks revolve, catering for a wide variety of entertainment activities for all ages to enjoy.

1. Gold Reef City
Gold Reef City forms a comfortable combination of a multitude of exhilarating adrenaline-pumping gut-wrenching rides to a farmyard of animals, kiddie’s corner and an amphitheatre showcasing tribal dancing. Located in the heart of Johannesburg, this top rated theme park houses a museum offering a peak into 19th century life in Johannesburg that tells the golden tale of this metropolis’ beginnings, 30 thrilling adventure rides, underground tours of the still operational mine and gold-pouring demonstrations. Aptly named rides such as the Tower of Terror, the Anaconda, the Miner’s Revenge and the Golden Loop is just a sample of the breathtaking escapades available; although not for the faint-hearted.

2. Sun City theme park
This highly popular tourist attraction is situated in the North West province and is attached to the Sun City resort complex. The overwhelming number of family-oriented leisure and entertainment options is why this iconic theme park reserves its popular reputation with both local and foreign visitors. Entertainment options on offer are a variety of adventure sporting activities, safari tours, Valley of the Waves (a water park with a 6500m² wave pool, plunge pool) and Kamp Kwena (a children’s activity park with trampolines, mini-cars and adventure golf).

3. Ratanga Junction
Ratanga Junction is Cape Town’s offer to South Africa’s theme park contingent characterised by subtropical plants and winding waterways. Boasting over 30 attractions, 24 of which are scintillating heart stopping gravity-defying rides with names such as the Slingshot, The Cobra, The Diamond Devil Run, Congo Queen, Crocodile Gorge, Bushwhacker, and Monkey Falls; it comes as no surprise that this entertainment world ranks highly on the city’s list of tourist attractions. Shopping and leisure options presented by this theme park include snake and exotic bird exhibitions as well as live music shows.

4. uShaka Marine World
Located in the sun-kissed city of Durban is the world renowned uShaka Marine World. This visionary family-oriented entertainment complex is hard to beat for those wanting some fun in the sun. An underground aquarium, a water park complete with slides, splash and palm-lined swimming pools, recreation of a wreck of an old 1920 cargo ship, dolphin and seal stadium showcasing award-winning dolphin shows. For shopping enthusiasts there is Village Walk enclosed within the complex with over 11 250m2 of retail speciality stores, restaurants and other indigenous and tourist-focused goods and services.

5. Plett Puzzle Park
Fun-infused entertainment activities at the Plet Puzzle Park in Plettenberg Bay are a work out for both the mind and body. Attractions include the life-size 3D maze, the first of its kind in South Africa; a Rope Maze, jungle gym, coffee and gift shop. Navigate your way through the Forest Puzzle Walk with word, shape and general knowledge challenges.

Eco travel

Turn your holiday into a green eco friendly travel experience

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Responsible travel is growing in momentum and the travel industry has sat up and taken notice. Continuous growing worldwide concern for our vulnerable planet has seen many tourists opting to go green and adopt eco friendly practices in order to help save our natural resources and optimise their travel experiences.

The International Ecotourism Society defined eco tourism as “responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people”.

In the drive towards conserving biological and cultural diversity, eco tourism and sustainable travel practices have become the critical factors to observing responsible travel behaviour. The history of eco tourism can be traced back to the late 1970s. Twenty years later and the phenomenon has become one of the fastest growing sectors of the global tourism industry.

The benefits of socially and environmentally sound travel principles have highlighted the importance of making green friendly choices in our daily living and incorporating such a lifestyle into the way we travel too. Going green is feel good and requires relatively very little additional effort.

Here are some ways in which you can turn your holiday into a green eco friendly travel experience:

1. Support local communities. By choosing to consume local produce as sourced from farmer’s markets, you get to savour authentic nutritious delicious food in addition to experiencing the culture.
2. When making air travel bookings, you would want to fly on the most fuel-efficient aircraft available. The Airbus 345 and Boeing 787 are good examples of eco friendly aircraft.
3. One of the easiest ways to incorporate environmentally friendly principles is to choose eco friendly activities whilst on holiday. Hiking, bicycling, kayaking, provide enormous opportunities for fun and unique perspectives on the landscapes.
4. You can begin planning your eco friendly holiday by researching a region for all it has to offer and appreciate its culture and nature’s treasures.
5. Reduce your carbon footprint on holiday by using eco friendly gadgets. Innovative technological developments have produced products such as solar-powered phones and rechargeable batteries.

Seeing that the tourism industry is very much consumer-driven, travellers can influence more ethical travel options being put into practice. Almost every industry is becoming environment conscious and the global travel industry is no exception. The green savvy traveller has plenty of options to making holidays eco friendly too. Green friendly hotels, lodges, tour operators, safari excursions, tourist activities and attractions all cater for the needs and concerns of the eco tourist.

Eco friendly accommodation should bear certification which assures you that the hotel observes energy and water conservation, contributes positively to the environment, holds a responsible position in the local community and has a waste reduction management plan in action.

Minimise your environmental footprint whilst on travel and enjoy the rhythms of the natural world through a green eco friendly travel itinerary.

Little Karoo

Destination Little Karoo: a tourist’s introduction

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At first glance the appearance of the arid, dry bleak landscape of the Little Karoo in the Western Cape is quickly dispelled by majestic mountains, crystal streams, mystical caves and a unique biome studded with aloe and miniature baobab trees characterised by their yellow peeling bark and red tubular flowers. A tourist’s introduction to the Little Karoo (Klein Karoo) is met with the warmth and honest hospitality of the locals coupled by distinctive, unrivalled landscape beauty.

The Little Karoo is comfortably placed between the magnificent Outeniqua, Langeberg and Swartberg Mountain Ranges. For both local and international tourists, the region’s magnetic pull are its desert landscapes and wide-open skies which promise unforgettable stunning sunsets.

The word ‘little’ included in the name of this picturesque area bears no significance to the number of attractions available for any visitor to the region. Quite the opposite in fact. Little Karoo welcomes all visitors with a wealth of natural and man-made attractions guaranteed to delight all of the senses.

In the spring time, the Little Karoo showcases its colourful tapestry of flower fusion to visitors who descend on the area from around the globe in droves to witness the magic of desert sand converted into a profusion of colourful splendour.

Among its many claims to fame, the Little Karoo boasts being home to possibly the world’s longest wine route and most diverse wine producing region in South Africa – Route 62. Thanks to its semi-arid climate and winter rainfall, the region’s winemakers are adequately equipped to producing an extensive range of good quality wines. This ability may be attributed to the vines grown in the fertile alluvial soil found along the river banks.

On the calendar of top attractions is one of the country’s favourite events – the Little Karoo Arts Festival. South Africa’s blend of talent, from artists to musicians to craftsmen, all come together to display and celebrate their spectacular God-given gifts. Hosted by the town of Oudtshoorn, the festival flaunts a fabulous array of music, fine art, poetry, drama and food that would satisfactorily satisfy any festival-going fan.

Another major inducement to including a visit to this incredibly fascinating area is the Cango Caves. Located about 30 km out of Oudtshoorn, the Cango Caves houses some of the largest stalagmite formations to be found in the world. These spectacular limestone structures were set about many millions of years ago. Some names include: ‘the bridal couple’, ‘glass flower fantasy’, ‘weird cango candle’ and ‘the hanging shawl’.

The towns of Little Karoo mirror the history and unique culture of this expanse of South Africa. Oudtshoorn, the main town is regarded as the ostrich feather capital of the world owing to its ostrich rich farming industry.

Calitzdorp prides itself on housing four wine estates. The nearby Gamka Mountain Reserve is where the endangered Cape mountain zebra can be found.

It is not just scintillating scenery that captures the heart of the visitor to Little Karoo. The quaint Victorian village, De Rust, makes adventure activities available to tourists. These are in the form of hiking trails, horse rides and 4×4 drives.

The quiet rural atmosphere and breathtaking views of Little Karoo makes it a perfect place to be at one with the natural world and should be on every travel itinerary to South Africa.

Long stopover

A traveller’s survival guide to long stopovers

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Surviving a long stopover begins with a change in perception. Glass half full or half empty? Airport stopovers are becoming more of a traveller’s reality as airlines, in their efforts to lower operating costs, are decreasing the more expensive direct flight option. A traveller’s survival guide to long stopovers begins with a positive frame of mind, forethought and planning.

Research the airport’s facilities

Seeing that an airport may be where you will be spending a good few hours, it is well worth taking a look a closer look at the airport’s facilities. Information is vital. Most of the larger busier airports have extensive facilities to soothe away the stress and strains of air travel.

The airport’s website is ideally your first go-to-point for information. Are there pay-to-enter lounges, restaurants, shops, shower facilities, spa treatment facilities, gym, children entertainment areas, internet facilities or any other facilities of interest to you? However unlikely it may be, should the airport you’re researching not have found its digital voice, ask your travel agent or family and friends who have been to the airport before for more ideas on how to make the most of your stopover time there.

You may not want to carry around unnecessary baggage that weighs you down. Investigate whether there is baggage deposit services available to store baggage that you will not need while you make the most of the airport’s stopover facilities.

Long stopover activities for travellers

• Take in a short sight-seeing tour
A long stopover, of more than five hours between flights, is an ideal opportunity to take in the city’s local tourist attractions that are in close proximity to the airport. Making use of the direct trains or bus services is a wiser option than expensive taxi fares and safer should the city suffer heavy congested traffic.

• Exercise
After being seated for hours during a long-haul flight, aching muscles and joints will be in need of a good stretch. A good long walk around the airport will be good for keeping the circulation in your body going and will give you the opportunity to become familiar with the layout of the airport. You could also use the exercise to find the next flight’s departure gate and not waste unnecessary time in trying to find it just before your flight takes off.

• Pamper and refresh weary body
A great idea would be to treat you to a massage or an indulgent facial should the airport offer Spa treatment facilities. A rejuvenated body goes a long way to making a weary traveller feel loads better.

• Window shopping whiles away the time quite easily
Window shopping can be as fun as regular shopping but without adding to the weight of your luggage with unnecessary items.

Visa free for South African passport holders

Top 10 visa free destinations for South Africans

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The good news for South African passport holders is that there are plenty of travel opportunities without the need for a visa. Here is our list of top 10 visa free destinations for South African passport holders.

Andorra
For the action addicted tourist, the ski slopes and luxurious resorts of Andorra and hiking trails in this mountainous region of Europe offers abundant thrills of excitement and adventure. The promise of unraveling a charming quaint culture is also a big inducement for a visit to Andorra located in south western Europe.

Chile
Spectacular scenery of glaciers and fjords await visitors to this South American gem of a tourist destination. Discover the many fine beaches and varied dramatic landscapes of deserts, ice fields and volcanoes.

Costa Rica
Five vibrant active volcanoes with glowering sparks lighting up the night sky delight tourists. Opt to soak away the stress and strains in one of many naturally-fed thermal hot springs. Costa Rica takes pride in many of the adrenaline action-packed adventures it has to offer holidaymakers from aerial sky treks and zip lines to white water river rafting to horse back adventures at sundown.

Fiji
Labelled the ‘Pearl of the Pacific’, the Fiji Islands showcases a variety of attractions that has travelers in awe. Over 300 islands depict pure and perfect beaches with crystal clear waters. A sense of adventure awaits on jet-boat safaris, acres of tropical jungles and dynamic coral reefs.

Ireland
Irresistible Ireland’s multitude of main attractions has visitors gazing in admiration at picturesque landscapes, mountains, lakes, desert flowers, castles seeping history, heritage and legends. Easily accessible to South Africans, the charm of the Irish and beauty of the iconic isle of Ireland promises a playground for both the young and old.

Maldives
There are numerous reasons to visit the Maldives, especially if exquisite beaches are what you’re after. Each island boasts its own individual charm. This fantastic water wonderland not only offers South Africans a visa free travel experience, but the best diving destination in the world as well.

Mozambique
The white sandy beaches and azure waters of Mozambique have become a firm favourite with South Africans for a perfect island getaway.

Seychelles
Seychelles offers South African holidaymakers pristine beaches with turquoise waters for swimming or snorkeling on a total of 155 islands. Other water-filled fun activities one can enjoy on the Seychelles islands are diving, fishing and sailing. Accommodation options include luxury 5 star resorts or rustic lodges or beachside bungalows.

Singapore
Popular tourist attractions in Singapore include Orchard Road where one can get one’s high street fashion fix. But Singapore offers more than just fabulous shopping experiences. Singapore Zoo offers a world class facility on 28 landscaped hectares and unique open concept. Singapore Botanic Gardens is a man-made version of paradise and a must-see on any tourist’s itinerary.

Zambia
Steeped in natural attractions, Zambia is every action adventurist’s paradise. Horse riding safari adventures in Kafue National Park, canoe safaris, exhilarating game watching opportunities, bungee jumping off the Victoria Falls Bridge and white water rafting are just some of the activities to delight the adventure enthusiast.

For more visa free destinations visit www.visaguru.co.uk

Stay safe in South Africa

Tips to staying safe whilst travelling in South Africa

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South Africa showcases a treasure trove of tourist attractions not to be missed. With its world of wildlife, majestic mountains, breathtaking beaches and diverse cultures, it is easy to see why South Africa has become a favourite holiday destination. Like in any other country whilst on travel, one has to heed certain precautionary steps whilst on travel in South Africa to ensure a happy and safe trip.

What can a tourist expect from a visit to this country located at the southern most tip of Africa? South Africans lovingly refer to their country as the ‘Rainbow Nation’ and an international visitor quickly identifies with the magic and charm held in abundance here. Warm pleasant all-year round weather, a diverse variety of flora and fauna, many exquisite natural wonders including World Heritage sites, colourful cultures, sumptuous cuisine and an array of delightful activities to thrill both young and old.

By following a few basic rules holidaymakers whilst on travel to South Africa can ensure a memorable pleasant stay and a yearning to come back again.

Avoid hotspots of crime.
In certain major cities, like Johannesburg, there are higher risk areas which would be very wise for any tourist to avoid. If the township experience is of interest, a safer option would be to opt for one of many guided tours available with reputable tour companies. Another safety tip is to not venture out at night in dodgy areas.

Be vigilant
Whilst it is important to be vigilant about your person and your possessions during the day, it is even more critical that at night you pay closer attention to being safe. Do not leave your belongings unattended, not even in the hotel foyer. Ensure that doors are locked whether in your hotel room or when driving about in your rented car.

Standard travel precautions
A basic safety tip is to not have your valuables visible. It is not a good idea to carry around expensive jewellery or have wallets and purses lying around. Expensive valuable items should be locked away for safekeeping. Wear pouches well concealed under clothing that holds cash, cards, keys or important documents. It is also safer to not carry wads of cash. Modern conveniences of credit cards and debit cards have the added incentive of being a safer option for travellers. Highly prized digital cameras should rather be enclosed in bags than displayed around the neck.

Be forearmed by being informed
Familiarise yourself with the city or cities you will be visiting. Contact local information bureaus, hotels or people who have visited the areas for more information. Local people too are more than happy to help.

Guarantee your safety by using the services of reputable companies
Use only reputable companies when hiring taxis, rental cars or when opting to take a tour. It is good to know that road infrastructure is well maintained in South Africa and driving on national roads is a pleasure.

Travelling with children

12 Essential items needed when travelling with small children

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Travelling with small children may not be as difficult as you might imagine. A little time spent preparing, planning and organizing and you can enjoy a successful holiday with the happy and comfortable kids. Being unprepared spells stressed out parents and equally stressed out children.

1. Food to snack on
Snacks keep children nourished as well as entertained. Choose your child’s favourite snacks, the healthier the guilt free and better. Ideally these the kids can munch on themselves without too much of a mess. Dried fruit, raisons, pretzels, stick cheeses and cereal bars. On international travel, there may be laws governing bringing in of food items in some countries.

2. Nappies/diapers/pull-ups
These can be bought practically everywhere in the world. It is important, however, to carry enough for the first day or two of your journey. This is helpful in reducing luggage space.

3. Small first-aid kit
First-aid kits should comprise of pain reliever, bandages, antibacterial ointment, a thermometer, antihistamines, cough medicine, antiseptic cream, bug repellent and relief, tweezers, paracetamol, anti-diarrohea tablets and sunscreen.

4. A change of clothing
When travelling with small children a change of clothing is essential. In the event of any mishap ending in messed clothes which is a likely event, you are safe in the knowledge that you have spare until you reach your destination.

5. Wet wipes
Wet wipes are a mother’s best friend and come in handy to refresh faces or clean hands and when changing nappies.

6. Activity bag of favourite things
Included in here could be favourite music or story cd’s. Colouring and reading books, board games and finger puppets keep kids well entertained as well. Another idea suggests experts, is to introduce a few new toys too, they add to the novelty of the journey.

7. Ziplock bags
These are amazing essential versatile items useful in most non-life threatening emergencies and one can never have enough of them. They can double up as storage bags for food, small toys, and toiletries as well as for many other objects. Light weight and hardly take up any space at all, ziplock bags earn their place on the list of essential travel items.

8. Travel adaptors
On carrying electrical items on international travel, travel adaptors

9. An umbrella
Even if you’re travelling to a sunny and hot destination, an umbrella is useful in keeping your children out of the harmful rays of the sun and prevents sunburn. Sunglassess and a hat are a good idea too.

10. Comfortable weather-proof shoes
Be prepared for walking by taking along comfortable shoes. Sometimes you may experience unexpected downpours.

11. Disinfecting hand gel
These are great when no water is available and clean hands are a prerequisite against the spreading of germs.

12. Collapsible stroller

Strollers come in very handy when having to walk long distances with mall, tired children. The collapsible variety is a space-saver and can easily be checked in or stored away in the overhead compartment.