Tips for smart packing

Let us let you in on a little secret, there’s an art to perfect packing and we’re quite the professionals. Be informed – note your airline’s weight and size limitations on both checked luggage and hand luggage. This will avoid paying for excess luggage or having to buy emergency alternate hand luggage at the airport.

Buy (just) before you fly – liquid restrictions don’t apply air-side. So if you know you’re going to need something in larger quantities it’s best to buy it once you have gone through security. This is also a great opportunity to take advantage of duty-free.

Good luggage is worth its low-weight – invest in top quality, extra light suitcases and you won’t look back.

Carrying a little excess holiday weight – perfectly acceptable after the holiday, but don’t load up before you’ve even left the house. Make a list in advance.

Cases at the ready – Before you begin packing, lay out your suitcase and hand luggage on the bed in front of you. When you’re almost full it’s a good idea to quickly zip up and check you can still lift the suitcase!

No room for sentimentality – Cut throat packing is the way forward. The rules are; if it’s not on the list, it doesn’t make the case. Harsh but true.

Wrinkle-free – Socks and tights go inside shoes. Swimwear goes inside that beach bag; the beach bag can be used to create a firm layer on which to put all of your ironed and neatly folded clothing. Any travel related creases can easily be eradicated with a steam shower on arrival.

Label, label, label – Always tie a second label to the outside of your case and then place a third label, with details of your flight and destination, inside the suitcase itself. Always better to be safe than sorry.

Check in late at your peril – Your bags are more at risk of getting lost if they are checked in late!

Happy travels!