How to pack your suitcase

When you head off for the sun, are your left with a suitcase that you can't shut and wondering what you packed in there could possibly take up so much space?

Sports Direct have some tips for keeping your suitcase organised and maximising space.

• Save room with miniatures
People rarely need a full bottle of shower gel when travelling abroad for less than a week; save room in the suitcase by substituting the family sized bottles for miniature versions which can be easily rolled up in socks, or packed tightly into the appropriate compartment.

• Roll instead of fold
Although the majority of UK holiday goers prefer to fold their clothes, rolling allows for more items to be packed into even the smallest of cases, this can also prevent some items from creasing too much.

• Remove items from bulky packaging
Shoeboxes can be sacrificed; packing shoes and toiletries separately rather than altogether in packaging will not only allow extra room for essentials, but smaller items- or items which can be worn creased such as underwear and socks, can be stuffed into shoes and wrapped up around bottles (handy for providing extra packaging for perfume
bottles or ladies make up items).

• Make use of hand luggage
Many of the major airlines such as Virgin Atlantic and British Airways allow up to 6kgs of hand luggage to be taken aboard the cabin, to avoid any nasty charges at check in- packing heavier items such as beach towels, books and hair brushes in hand luggage will free up the weight allowance and room in the main suitcase. (Please check all
airline luggage restrictions before check in)

• Optimise suitcase compartments
Many suitcases come with extra zip compartments for security and protection; fill these with toiletries, chargers and items which require immediate access upon arrival. This can
prevent toiletry spillages on clothing items, as well as making space in the main suitcase compartment.