We have all been there. The suitcase is open on the bed, the pile beside it keeps growing, and every single item feels like something you cannot live without. Then you arrive, unzip your bag and realise you have packed four jumpers for a sunny week away but left your phone charger plugged in at home!

I used to be a chronic overpacker, lugging a heavy case through airports only to come home with half of it unworn. Over the years, I have learnt that packing well is not about taking less for the sake of it. It is about taking the right things. Here are my tried and tested tips.

Start With a List

Writing a packing list a few days before you leave is the best way to avoid both overpacking and forgetting something important. When you pack in a rush, you tend to throw things in “just in case”, which is exactly how bags end up bursting at the seams.

Split your list into simple sections, such as documents, clothes and shoes, toiletries, and tech (and don’t forget to write down all the chargers you’ll need!). Keep it on your phone so you can tick things off and reuse it for your next trip.

Pack Your True Essentials First

Before you think about outfits, put aside the things that would cause real trouble if they were left behind:

• Passport, driving licence and travel documents
• Bank cards and a little local currency
• Travel insurance details
• Any prescription medication, kept in your hand luggage
• Phone, charger and a travel adaptor
• House keys

Once these are safely packed, the rest feels far less pressured. Most other things can be bought when you arrive if you forget them.

Check the Weather

A quick look at the forecast stops you packing for every possible season. If the week looks warm and dry, there is no need for a heavy coat. If rain is likely, a lightweight waterproof that folds up small will do far more for you than a bulky jacket. Check again the day before you leave in case anything changes.

Build a Simple Capsule Wardrobe

This tip transformed the way I pack. Rather than planning an outfit for each day, choose a small selection of clothes in colours that all go together. Neutral shades such as navy, white, grey and beige are easy to mix and match, and a scarf or piece of jewellery adds a pop of colour.

For a week away, two or three bottoms, four or five tops, one smarter outfit and a light layer are usually plenty. Remember that nobody on holiday is counting how often you wear your favourite top!

Be Clever With Your Shoes

Shoes take up a surprising amount of space, and most of us only need two or three pairs for a typical holiday. I always travel in my bulkiest pair to free up room in the case, then pack one lighter option and something for the evening if needed, though usually just some flat black sandals that can be used day or night.

The most important thing is that at least one pair is properly comfortable, because exploring a new city or wandering along the coast can mean hours on your feet. A good pair of women’s comfortable shoes that looks smart enough for most of your outfits can easily do the job of two or three pairs. Stuff socks or small items inside them so no space is wasted!

Downsize Your Toiletries

Full-size bottles add a lot of weight. Decant what you need into small refillable bottles, or try solid shampoo and soap bars, which are compact and will not leak over your clothes (take a ziplock freezer bag to bring them home in at the end of the trip!). It is also worth checking what your accommodation provides, as many places supply shower gel, shampoo and a hairdryer, so if you’re happy using theirs, you can save even more space and packing time.

Roll, Fold and Organise

Rolling soft items such as t-shirts and pyjamas saves space and helps reduce creases, while packing cubes or zip bags keep everything easy to find. For more ideas on making the most of the space you have, these handy tips for packing a suitcase are well worth a read.

Try to leave a little room for souvenirs too, or fold a lightweight tote bag into your case to use on the way home.

Do a Final Edit

Before you zip up, go through everything one last time. For each item, ask yourself whether you will definitely use it or whether it is just in case. If it is the latter, it can probably stay at home. Then give your essentials a final check, and you are ready to go.

Travel Lighter, Enjoy More

Packing lighter does not mean going without. It simply means being a little more thoughtful, so you spend less time wrestling with heavy bags and more time enjoying your trip. It also means less time unpacking when you get back! With a good list, a versatile wardrobe and sensible shoes, you will have everything you need and nothing you do not.