Professional-approved packaging pieces that may alter how you take a trip

Packing smarter: the accessories that genuinely make a difference

Most seasoned travellers agree that the right few accessories matter more than a bigger suitcase. Packing cubes are the obvious starting point: they compress soft clothing, keep outfits grouped together and make it far easier to find what you need without unpacking everything onto a hotel bed. Rolling T-shirts and lightweight trousers before placing them in a cube tends to reduce creasing and saves a surprising amount of space.

Protecting clothes from spills and creases

Toiletries are the most common cause of ruined clothing in transit. A clear, zipped wash bag with leak-resistant bottles keeps liquids contained and also speeds up airport security checks, where liquid rules still apply at many airports. Wrapping the cap of each bottle in a strip of cling film before closing it is a simple trick that prevents most leaks. For smarter outfits, a garment folder or a dry-cleaning bag placed between layers helps shirts and dresses arrive looking presentable.

Small items that save time

• Compression bags for bulky jumpers and coats on winter trips.
• A shoe bag to keep soles away from clean clothes.
• A cable organiser for chargers, adaptors and headphones.
• A luggage tracker or clear name tag so a lost case can be identified and returned.
• A foldable tote for shopping or overflow on the way home.

Thinking about the longer move

The same principles of organisation apply on a much bigger scale when you relocate rather than holiday. Labelling boxes by room, packing an essentials bag for the first night and keeping documents in one folder make moving day far less stressful. If a trip is part of house hunting, or you are planning a move to Northamptonshire, our local information on Brackley and our guide to buying a home may help you plan ahead before you pack a single box.