You’ll need a large space to work in. Gather up everything that needs to fit in your bag and organise it into categories: clothing (separated into shoes, tops, pants, jackets, outerwear, underwear and accessories), toiletries, electronic devices and miscellaneous equipment/gadgets.

Now, remove any items that can be replaced by another device on this particular trip. For example, if you’re planning to take only happy snaps, you can use a smartphone rather than a heavyweight camera. If you only want to access social media, a tablet or smartphone will do instead of a laptop. And you won’t need a portable speaker if your hotel or Airbnb has a Bluetooth-enabled speaker or stereo dock.

Next, check your chargers – if all of your devices use USB, one compatible charger might be all you need (provided you pack all of the necessary cables). If you are taking your smartphone as your primary device, a small portable battery pack or charging case will ensure it lasts all day.

If you’re happy to use the toiletries provided at your accommodation, you can easily cull some basic amenities. If you prefer taking your own products, use screw-top containers to decant liquids, gels and creams rather than bringing a full-sized bottle. Pharmacies and supermarkets sell travel-sized versions of everything from dry shampoo and hairspray to toothpaste and deodorant, as well as travel bottles and tubes. 

Versatile items, light layers and a select colour scheme are key. Choose clothing that can be dressed up or down and layers well. It’s best to stick to neutrals (black/white/grey or beige/navy) with one or two complementary accent colours. Be particularly mindful when choosing heavier outerwear and footwear – taking only one jacket, or leaving behind a pair of shoes, will make a big weight difference.

You may have items such as umbrellas, raincoats, books and pillows in this pile. If you’re desperate to trim down your baggage, consider alternatives or purchasing these items during your trip. For instance, you could buy an umbrella at your destination, pack a disposable poncho, read on your tablet instead of taking a book, or grab a magazine at the airport. Don’t be afraid to bring items that have proven themselves on past trips, though – a neck pillow might be exactly what you need to sleep well on a long-haul flight or lengthy train journey.

Now you can begin to pack for maximum efficiency and space-saving (which means you can shop more on your holiday!). Start by placing the heaviest items closest to the bottom of your bag or suitcase (the end with the wheels). Seasoned travellers often swear by packing cells: they come in cube shapes that fit well inside suitcases and have the added benefits of separating your clothing and keeping loose items together (anyone who has had to open their bag for a Customs inspection will understand why this is convenient). Another handy space-saving tip is to tightly roll your clothing instead of folding and stacking it. It’s a good idea to roll up belts so they don’t get crushed and to fold shirts and clothing that crease easily; place these at the top of the case to keep them from getting wrinkled.

Make the most of all the space you have available: fill voids with socks, underwear or T-shirts and stuff your shoes with socks, small fragile items or jewellery (this also helps shoes keep their shape). Protect other fragile items with clothing and pack them in the middle of your bag. Always place anything that might leak or soil your clothing in a zip-lock bag or a couple of knotted plastic bags.