The Ultimate Packing Hack Every Traveller Needs to Know

Published: 22 August ‘2025. the English Chronicle Desk

Packing for a holiday can often feel like a delicate balancing act, requiring travellers to fit everything they need while avoiding wrinkles, overpacking, or the nagging worry that they’ve forgotten something essential. For many, this leads to compromises, such as limiting clothing options to items that don’t need ironing or risking a chaotic suitcase. However, according to travel expert Claire Le Moigne, there is a simple yet effective technique that can transform the way we pack, making trips more convenient and stress-free.

Le Moigne, a TUI retail manager with over 35 years of experience and more than 6,000 holidays booked, has shared her insights into the most efficient packing strategies. Reflecting on her extensive career, she explained, “Over the years, I’ve been on my fair share of trips, but I’ve also helped countless customers prepare for their summer holidays. Along the way, I’ve picked up numerous tips for essential travel items, but I’ve also witnessed some of the most common mistakes travellers make when packing their luggage.”

One of her most recommended strategies is the “bundle method”, a technique that involves wrapping clothes around a central core rather than folding them flat. This method not only minimises wrinkles but also maximises suitcase space, allowing travellers to pack efficiently without compromising style. Le Moigne added, “Nobody wants to spend their holiday ironing clothes. I always roll my items to prevent creases and save space. For extra compression, the bundle method works particularly well, wrapping larger garments around smaller ones to keep everything neat.”

For those who prefer not to unpack upon arrival, she suggests an alternative approach: filing clothes vertically. This method provides a clear view of all items at a glance, though it may require occasional use of a travel iron.

Le Moigne also emphasised the importance of packing light. She advised travellers to reduce toiletries, opting for travel-sized containers and purchasing essentials at their destination when possible. Planning outfits in advance is another tip to avoid overpacking, while a foldable tote bag can serve multiple purposes, from carrying souvenirs to holding laundry.

Air travel, she noted, brings its own considerations. Essentials such as eye masks, earplugs, and noise-cancelling headphones can greatly enhance comfort, but the single most important item, according to Le Moigne, is a reusable water bottle. Not only does it promote hydration throughout the journey, but it can also be refilled after security checks and during flights, offering both convenience and sustainability.

Incorporating these practical strategies into holiday preparation allows travellers to focus on the experiences that matter most rather than worrying about messy luggage or forgotten items. With Le Moigne’s guidance, packing can shift from a stressful chore to a simple, organised, and even enjoyable part of the journey, ensuring a smoother and more relaxed travel experience.