Packing tips

1. Have your suitcases open and start packing well before your departure date. This allows you to put things in your bags as you think of it.
2. Make a list of everything you need to take with you, and then cross them off as you put them in your bags. Double check the list before you close your bags.
3. Take clothes that won't crease easily. Don't put easily crushed clothes at the bottom of your bags. Roll them or wrap them and wrap your best outfits in tissue to reduce wrinkles.
4. Put items you don't mind creasing into bags and pack them into shoes and other nooks and crannies.
5. Think very carefully about what shoes to take. Nothing takes up space and adds to weight like shoes. Will you wear them?
6. Wrap shoes in plastic bags to stop them marking clothes.
7. Ensure all toiletries and sun creams are sealed securely. Pack them in sealable plastic bags.
8. Put valuables in your hand luggage.
9. It's a good idea to carry a spare set of underwear and a top in your hand luggage too, in case of delays or lost luggage.
10. Remember that many goods can often be bought more cheaply abroad.
11. Hand luggage should measure no more than 23cm x 36cm x 56cm and should weigh no more than 4.5kgs.
12. The length, width and depth of suitcases should add up to no more than 158cm and should not weigh much more than 30kgs.
13. On your outward journey write your destination on your luggage tags, not your home address. And put your destination address inside your suitcase as well just in case.
14. Have a change of underwear a toothbrush and a clean shirt in your hand luggage. If your bags do go astray you will be able to cope until you can get to the shops.
15. If you're travelling with a friend or partner, split your things on the outward journey. This helps if only one case gets lost.

Five things we won't leave home without

1. A small sewing kit - essential for repairing clothes and removing splinters.
2. A small pack of baby wipes (in hand luggage) - to clean hands, face and toilet seats.
3. A hat that you will wear.
4. At least one toilet roll (if you're pushed for space, take the middle out and flatten it).
5. The basics of a first aid kit.