The Easter holidays are upon us, and for some South Africans, that means boarding a plane to visit loved ones, explore a new city, or simply take a well-earned break.
But before you can sit back, relax and enjoy your destination, there's the not-so-small matter of packing. Whether you're a first-time flyer or a seasoned traveller, smart packing can mean the difference between a smooth journey and an airport headache.
Packing is planning – and it’s non-negotiable
Think of packing as the first step in your travel itinerary. Just as you wouldn’t leave home without your essentials, you shouldn’t travel without a proper plan. A bit of preparation can go a long way – helping you avoid unnecessary baggage fees, reduce stress at check-in, and save time when unpacking at your destination.
Mastering the art of smart packing
One travel hack that’s gaining popularity is compartmentalising your belongings. Content creator Amelia Campher recently shared on TikTok how she keeps her luggage neat and efficient by sorting her hair, beauty, makeup, and personal care items into separate vanity and toiletry bags from Temu.
@amelia_campher Hahaha wie onthou daai Houty Toity spray? 😂😂 #temu @Temu #vanitycase #washbag #badsakkie #ameliacampher #temusouthafrica ♬ original sound - Amelia | 2025 bride
Each item has a place, making it easy to access what she needs without turning her suitcase into chaos.
“This is your sign to buy these bags!” she told her followers, showing how her packing method helps her stay organised and ready for a clutter-free, stress-free travel experience with no forgotten items and no need to rummage through her luggage at every stop.
Whether you're flying or hitting the road this Easter, a well-organised backpack can make your life easier. It’s compact, lightweight, and easy to carry – perfect for airports, public transport, or packing the boot of your car.
Soft-sided backpacks and duffel bags tend to be more forgiving than hard-shell suitcases when it comes to fitting into overhead compartments.
Don’t forget the airline baggage rules
If you’re traveling by air, understanding baggage policies is also key. Here’s what you need to know to avoid surprises:
- FlySafair: Offers a free 7kg carry-on bag, but checked luggage comes with an extra fee. The checked baggage weight limit is 20kg, and if you exceed it, expect to pay extra. To avoid surprises, weigh your bag before you go.
- Lift: Lift offers a free 7kg carry-on bag and includes the first 20kg of checked baggage in your ticket price. However, if you go over, you'll be charged for each additional kilogram.
- SAA: Passengers are allowed one carry-on bag (max 8kg) and 23kg of checked luggage on domestic flights. This is usually enough, but double-check your limits to avoid excess baggage fees if you’re packing extra.
IOL Travel