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The unexpected items you never thought you would need on holiday

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Preparing for a holiday often involves meticulous planning, with travellers packing everything they think they will need. However, it's the unexpected items—the unsung heroes—that can truly save the day in unexpected situations.

“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.”

When it comes to packing for a holiday, it is not advisable to overpack, and Ragavan does suggest eight items that should be added to the checklist when packing:

  • A travel-sized sewing kit: An unexpected wardrobe malfunction can throw a wrench into your holiday plans. A small sewing kit with needles, thread, and safety pins can be a lifesaver when faced with a torn seam or a loose button, ensuring your outfit remains intact for your adventures.
  • Mini first aid kit: No one wants to use a first aid kit while on holiday, but 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: Don’t forget that a different location can cause allergies to flare-up and packing a decongestant to help ease these symptoms is essential. 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.
  • Reusable water bottle: Staying hydrated is essential when you're exploring a bustling city or hiking through nature. Stay refreshed at all times without spending unnecessary money on bottled water.
  • Sterilising tablets: When going to a new location you may want to sterilise your drinking water. Milton tablets are small and compact, and easy to take with you on holiday and even on a hike. Milton tablets kill 99.9% of germs*, and this includes bacteria associated with water-borne diseases.
  • Portable phone charger: In our tech-centric world, the last thing you want is an uncharged phone battery. A portable charger can be a saviour when you least expect it, ensuring you stay connected, capture those unforgettable moments, and navigate unfamiliar places without the worry of a drained battery.
  • Washing powder: A spill at dinner can result in a stain on your favourite item of clothing, but packing a large, heavy bag of washing powder is not always ideal. Personal Touch Washing Powder Sheets is the perfect travel companion, as its A5 90g box is easy to transport and offers 18 washes. It is perfect for both auto wash, and hand washing – so no matter where you are, there is always an option for clean clothes.
  • Ziplock bags: These versatile bags have many uses. From protecting your electronics during sudden rain showers to keeping snacks fresh and preventing leaks from toiletries, Ziplock bags are simple yet surprisingly handy.

In the world of travel, being prepared for the unexpected is the mark of a savvy adventurer. While we often focus on the essentials, it's these seemingly minor items that can transform a challenging situation into a manageable one. So, as you prepare for your holiday, consider packing these unexpected heroes—you'll be surprised at how often you'll need them.

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