Self-catering holidays are a wonderful way to enjoy a break away from home, but still enjoy the comfort (and affordability) of cooking for yourself. Aside from regular food items like bread, milk, cooking oil, salt and pepper, and a bottle of wine, there are certain items that you just can’t afford to go without. Many of them should be supplied by your chosen establishment, but it may be a good idea to pack them just in case.
What to pack for your self-catering holiday:
- Army knife: Whether to slice biltong, clip toenails, or pull out a splinter, a multifunctional army knife is always handy.
- Corkscrew-bottle opener: Like a second sock, it is generally the one item of cutlery that you may struggle to find. (If it is there then its cousin, the can-opener, will most likely be missing.)
- Bar of sunlight soap: Not only great for washing dishes, but also clothes, and dirty hands.
- Toilet paper: You never want to risk being left without this “white gold”!
- Spare sheet: Any decent accommodation will supply fresh linen, so even if you don’t use it for your bed, a sheet can multitask as a tablecloth, picnic blanket, or even a window shade for kids in the car.
- Tea and/or coffee…and sugar: Although most establishments provide tea and coffee facilities, they are sometimes rationed. You don’t want to be left without your morning cuppa!
- Plastic packets: Not only good as picnic carriers and bin bags, but also as a dirty laundry bag.
- Plastic crockery: Although many establishments have plastic crockery for kids, some don’t. You are sure to use them on a picnic or two anyway.
- Ice-packs: Keep your refrigerated food fresh going to, and leaving from, your destination. These will also come in handy if anyone twists an ankle or has a nasty bump during an adventurous holiday activity.
- Cooler bag: You don’t want your ice-packs melting!
- Flashlight and/or candles: Don’t get left in the dark in the unlikely event of a power failure. Flashlights are also helpful for navigating through unfamiliar territory during the night, like when you want to grab something out the car or sneak around the kitchen for a midnight snack.
- Matches and/or lighter: What use is a candle without matches? Essential for braais, gas stoves, power failures, and romantic candlelight dinners. They also make a great air-freshener for the bathroom!
- Board games and/or playing cards: For rainy days or simply hours of relaxing entertainment without having to go anywhere.
The final essential item for a stress-free self-catering holiday is the right accommodation. Here are three fantastic establishments that offer 4-star self-catering accommodation in South Africa:
Buckler’s Africa, Mpumalanga
Buckler’s Africa is a beautifully thatched lodge perched along the banks of the Crocodile River in the Kruger Park area. Surrounded by 5 hectares of garden, guests are spoilt with picturesque surrounds and tranquillity like no other. The fully air-conditioned en-suite bedrooms are furnished with plush queen-sized beds. Large patios and lounges overlook the Kruger Park, and you will most likely spot wildlife coming to drink at the river.
Ellefsen Golf Suites, Western Cape
In the seaside town of Langebaan, Ellefsen Golf Suites boasts an 18-hole championship golf course designed by Gary Player. Visitors will not only enjoy rolling greens, but also nearby beaches and nature parks. Elegant two-bedroom apartments are stylishly decorated and comprised of a dining area, a fully-equipped kitchen, at least one full bathroom, and a built-in braai area. Soak up some sun and enjoy a refreshing splash at the on-site swimming pool.
House Purfikt @ Kleinemonde, Eastern Cape
With panoramic views of the beach and mountains, House Purfikt offers excellent accommodation on the Sunshine Coast. The delightful wooden house lies in a quiet cul-de-sac, on the edge of the famous Kleinemonde beach and lagoon. The house can accommodate five people, including children over the age of 5. It has two bedrooms, a lounge, dining area, fully-equipped kitchen, and an enclosed deck offering spectacular views.
What other items do you think are essential for a self-catering holiday?
Image 1 courtesy of freedigitalphotos.net
