Travel expert issues six packing tips to stop having to pay for extra airport baggage

I think we can all agree that packing is one of the worst things when it comes to getting ready to head on holiday.

With eyes firmly on that crisp airport pint after dropping your suitcase off at bag check, you've first got to make sure everything is in there before handing it over. After all, no one wants to get ready for the beach and realise you've left your swimming shorts or costume back in the UK.

But fitting your essentials in to the bag can be tricky and I'm sure many of you have underestimated how much you actually need to take.

Whether it's space or weight, getting the suitcase just right is essential to making sure you aren't made to pay extra for having a suitcase that's a little bit too heavy.

Mike Harvey, Managing Director at 1st Move International, has revealed to LADbible his six tips that he swears by when it comes to saving space in your suitcase and making sure you get everything in there that you need before journeying to the airport.

With TikTok having more than 100 million videos dedicated to travel packing hacks, we hope this clears the noise a little ahead of your trip overseas. Happy packing.

The KonMari fold

This involves folding your gear so that it stands up in your case. Yes, you read that correct.

"Marie Kondo's viral organising method, the KonMari technique, involves folding clothes into compact rectangles that can stand upright in your suitcase," Mike says.

"This is a game changer, as it not only saves space but also makes it easier to see and access each item without messing up the rest of the arrangement."

Use vacuum seal bags to compress bulky clothing

Investing in vacuum bags is something Mike swears by.

He says: "Social media users love vacuum seal bags for compressing bigger items like jackets and jumpers into flat packages.

"Simply place your clothes inside the bag, seal it and use a vacuum cleaner to remove the air. The result? Airtight packages that take up minimal space in your suitcase."

The problem with this one is when you get to the other side and getting everything back in to your suitcase. Politely asking for the hotel vacuum cleaner might help you on your way.

Use the space inside your shoes

If you're taking an extra pair of shoes or two, get them stuffed. Putting items in there that are slightly vulnerable to breaking if bashed would work too, such as an electric shaver.

"Don't overlook the empty space inside your shoes," Mike notes.

"Stuff socks, underwear and electronics like shavers inside your shoes to maximise space in your suitcase. This has the added benefit of helping your shoes maintain their shape during travel."

Strategically layer your packing using the Tetris method

Embrace your childhood love of Tetris with this one.

Mike explains: "Place heavier items like shoes or toiletry bags at the bottom, followed by neatly folded clothes arranged vertically.

"Fill any gaps with smaller items to ensure every inch of your suitcase is put to use. As this method helps distribute weight evenly, it prevents your clothes from getting wrinkled during travel."

Pack multi-use products

"Anticipate your needs ahead of time and pack products that serve multiple purposes," he says.

"That way you save on weight and space, without missing out on your essentials.

"A Swiss Army Knife, for example, comes equipped with a bottle opener (so you can enjoy a glass of wine without having to head out to buy a corkscrew after a long day of exploring), scissors for cutting tags off new clothes, and much more."

Invest in accessory organisers

Mike explains: "Jewellery and electronic organisers help by keeping your accessories and wires tangle-free and within close reach of each other, so you don’t have to rummage through your suitcase to locate one small item."