Save time by travelling light

1. Is my hand luggage the correct size? Will it make the weight limit?

It’s imperative that you check your airline’s rules before you get to the airport. Having the right piece of hand luggage is essential: too big, and you’ll have to check it in; too small, and you won't be taking advantage of all the available space.

Each airline has its own rules. If you frequently fly with one specific airline, it’s a good idea to get a bag that perfectly fits their requirements.

2. Does your airline allow a second piece of hand luggage?

Most airlines allow a second bag – handbag, laptop bag, camera bag – as well as your main piece of hand luggage. Some even stretch to a small rucksack.  

Make sure you take advantage of these additional spaces: they are ideal for wallets, travel documents, e-readers and any other small items you need to access quickly while at the airport.

4. Can I replace liquids with solids and use samples? 

If you’re dead set on taking your own toiletries, why not swap liquids for solids or try to get hold of some samples? 

Liquids are bulky and take up a lot of space, especially when you are restricted to one clear bag for all of your 100ml items, like at Heathrow. You can easily replace some of these liquids with solid deodorant, shampoo bars, conditioner bars, solid perfume and even solid toothpaste. And if you can’t find a solid alternative, take a sample: a lot of department and beauty stores give out samples with each purchase and they are ideal size for travelling. 

7. Pack like a pro

Being methodical and organised when packing your case is paramount if you’re going with hand luggage only.

• Use the ‘fold and roll technique: For larger items, like jeans, cardigans and tops, fold twice and then roll up. This saves space while avoiding any unsightly creases. 

• Use packing cubes: As well as keeping you enviably organised by compartmentalising your stuff, packing cubes also fit rather neatly into most luggage, saving you vital space. You can separate your toiletries, main clothes, electricals and shoes. Or devise a unique system all of your own, like packing certain outfits into cubes.

• Decant toiletries: If the place you are staying at doesn’t provide toiletries, decant your favourites from home into reusable 100ml bottles. You’ll have no trouble passing through security, but you’ll still have all the necessities for your morning regime.

• Utilise every bit of space: Pack the heaviest items at the bottom of your bag. Put belts around the edge of the case. Put socks into shoes. Use every nook and cranny of your case to your advantage. And remember to leave a little room if you want to buy a small souvenir.

8. If in doubt, ship it!

You didn’t think of this one, did you?!

With the huge proliferation of the Amazon Prime service, sometimes it can make sense to ship goods that don’t fit in your bag, so they arrive at your destination when you do. 

Just mark your order for “Hotel Guest: [Your name]”, and your accommodation should be happy to take delivery of your goods. If you're lucky, they might even deliver them to your room. Now that’s a hack!