What have I forgotten?

[MrsWembley]

Never done anything long haul before and am slightly nervous so all advice welcome!

Flying to South Africa in a couple of weeks and I'm trying to sort things out in my head. Got the tickets, insurance and I know where my passport is. I've got one of those cards that you preload with money. I've got to weigh my suitcase so I know where I am with clothing, etc.

What else?

Visas? Vaccinations?

www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/south-africa

Thanks

I've booked in with Boots for vaccinations and I don't need a visa as it's less than 90 days.

A few large "zippable" plastic bags.

Plug adaptors? We had to order ours online as couldn't find any in the shops

4-gang UK extension cable. Save fannying about needing a dozen separate adapters.

I'd take a bit of cash as well.
Where abouts in SA are you going?

Take over the counter medicine (paracetamol, ibuprofen, diarrhea, cystitis, creams) that you may need.

Make sure you have good travel insurance.

My DP, bless him, has bought me an adapter; I didn't even think about it! The four gang extension is genius

If it's all in my suitcase then are they ok about over the counter pills?

Why the zippies?

Going to Cape Town.

Figured I'd take out cash when I get there, via this card I've got.

Ziplock bags are for liquids, gels and pastes in hand luggage, I assume.

Always handy to have a little bit of cash on you just in case.

Have you put in place,things for your home when your gone? I.e. someone checking all is ok every now and then,clear out fridge/freezer,make sure bin is completely empty,no dirty dishes,pans,etc. Personally,I like to have house spotless for when I go away,so it's really inviting when I return.

I'm going by myself - part of the reason I'm feeling nervous, I suppose. DP staying home with the kids.

Make sure you have enough of any prescription medication you need to last your trip.

Make sure you take a credit card with you for emergencies.

A small sewing kit is useful and a small first aid kit.

Check the expiry date on your passport - make sure it’s in date.

Oh wow,how exciting....have a magical time. Try not fret to much,sounds like your well organised

I had a long haul alone recently, no colleagues, no DH, no kids and it was awesome.

I didn’t have to talk to anyone.
I didn’t have to open anyone’s drinks or packets
I didn’t have to go to the loo with anyone.
I watched 18 rated films without worrying about the children seeing my screen.
My hand luggage wasn’t full of emergency child throwing up survival kit.

Awesome Ten hours of peace, food, movies and sleep.

Cape Town is glorious this time of year so you’ll have a fabulous time. But unfortunately it’s in the middle of a massive water crisis - take dry shampoo / hand sanitizer / wipes / sports body wipes to freshen up between your 90 second showers. Be prepared to recycle your used shower water (hotel last week provided bucket in shower) to flush the loo etc.

Oh bloody hell! I knew about the drought but I didn't know they were limiting showers and things

Thanks all, I'm hoping to have a magical time but most of it will probably be spent in hospital (visiting sick father).

i realise you are taking a pre-loaded card, i would still notify my bank that i will be in south africa from this date to this date.

Also have a spare copy of your passport in case it gets lost or stolen.

look into how to get a local sim card for your phone and data.

Ooh shit, yes! Had it on a list somewhere to check roaming thingy, completely forgot since...

Insect repellant

How bad is it out there? I don't tend to get bitten but I suppose it's better to be prepared?

Make a list of what to pack and take it with you. That way you don't leave anything behind.

What if I leave the list behind?

Write 2 exact same lists,pack one away :) just incase. Don't panic,get excited