5 travel hacks you can use for the long weekend
Updated | By The Workzone with Elana Afrika-Bredenkamp/Udesha Moodley-Judhoo
Check out these simple travel hacks designed to help keep your belongings safe and make packing a breeze.

You might not always realise the benefits of hacks, but seasoned travellers will tell you – it’s always best to be prepared for the unexpected.
From shampoo explosions to tangled jewellery buried at the bottom of your cosmetics bag – and even the risk of luggage theft – a little planning can save you a lot of hassle.
Whether you're heading off for a long weekend getaway or preparing for the school holidays, these clever travel hacks will help make your trip that much smoother.
1. Soap sponges
Ever struggled to clean your child’s water bottle or cup while staying in a hotel? This soapy sponge hack is a game-changer.
Take a clean sponge, apply dishwashing liquid to the sponge side (not the scourer), and leave it to dry completely. Once dry, cut it into small squares and store them in a Ziploc bag.
When you need to wash something, just add water, and you have a ready-to-use soapy sponge.
2. Jewellery storage
If you don’t have a jewellery bag or box, keeping your jewellery safe from tangling and loss is simple with a straw and a cotton facial pad.
To store earrings, pierce the cotton pad with the earring posts and secure the back screws onto the pad. For necklaces, thread them through a cut straw and fasten the ends to keep them neatly in place.
3. Secure the zips of your luggage
Use a cable tie to secure your luggage zippers so no one can open your bags. You can easily break these off using a knife or pair of scissors when you reach your holiday destination.
4. T-shirt wrap
Instead of paying for plastic wrapping at the airport, use an old T-shirt to cover your suitcase. Not only is this a cost-effective alternative, but it also adds a personal touch. It’s a great way to quickly spot your bag on the luggage carousel.
5. Use a carabiner key chain
A carabiner key chain offers a simple yet effective way to secure your handbag. Attach one side of the carabiner to the bag zipper and the other to a stray accessory.
This added layer of security can help protect your belongings from thieves who might try to snatch them when you’re not looking.
If you’re travelling this long weekend or during the school holidays, travel safely and enjoy your time away.
Tune in to the 'Workzone with Elana Afrika-Bredenkamp', weekdays from 09:00 – 12:00. Stream the show live here or download our mobile app here.
Listen to Jacaranda FM:
- 94.2
- Jacaranda FM App
- http://jacarandafm.com
- DStv 858/ OpenView 602
Image courtesy of iStock
MORE FROM JACARANDA FM
Show's Stories
-
WATCH: Teenager urinates on table in restaurant
What would you do for internet fame?
The Drive with Rob & Roz an hour ago -
WATCH: Fake celeb pop-up skincare store scams South Africans
This is why we can't have nice things in SA...
The Drive with Rob & Roz an hour ago