Forget checking luggage; follow these 10 tips to become a carry on-packing superstar.

1. Have a “go-bag”

Prepare a bag with your regular requirements that needs minimal addition prior to travel. For example: Have a computer bag with a travel charger, HDMI cable, USB and phone charging cables prepacked and good to go. Add your laptop and walk out the door. For me, I keep a golf glove, a handful of tees and a few balls in a pocket of my suitcase to save buying new ones every time I get invited to play and am not prepared.

2.    Toiletries – Double bag, prepack and downsize

Spills inside your suitcase can be a nightmare. To avoid, place all liquids and gels inside a plastic bag inside either another plastic bag or your toiletries bag. Opting for travel size toiletries will also save you loads of space. Keep a travel-only toiletry bag that has duplicates of everything you need including a spare toothbrush. If you are a spray deodorant kind of guy, consider a roll on for travel times only, saving valuable time at the security checkpoints.

3. Wrinkle-free fabrics do matter

Inevitably, your suitcase will get tossed about while travelling and the contents will move and get creased. Investing in the right shirt will ensure you can look sharp, straight out of the suitcase. John Miles shirt collection are designed specifically with travel in mind, pull them out, shake twice and put on. It is that simple.

4. Laundry Bags, keep a spare

Stash an empty, lightweight bag inside your suitcase for any dirty laundry and if you forget you will often find fabric drawstring laundry bags at most high-end hotel rooms or a plastic one at middle range hotels. Pack on top of suitcase for separation then squish down to close.

5.    Place shoes foot-to-toe in the bottom of your suitcase

Heavy items, like shoes, should be placed at the bottom of your suitcase near the wheels. This saves space and makes sure that your suitcase is properly balanced. Put softer items on top as they will squish down easier, meaning less broken zips! It also means your bag will have an easier time compressing into the overhead bins.

6. Pack your socks in their natural environment

Don’t waste the valuable space inside your shoes. Put rolled-up socks inside the dress shoes and sneakers you are most likely to wear them with, this will also help to preserve their shape inside your suitcase.

7. Bag your soles

Use a shoe bag / laundry bag / plastic bag to prevent the dirt on your shoes from touching the other items in your suitcase, keeping the inside of your bag nice and clean.

8. Organise your tech kit

Once you have your electronics all set, minimize the cables and chargers. Let’s face it, our life is merely walking between charging stations, so carry an external battery pack for phone and small electronics, an extra USB for a rental car. Chose a lightweight universal power board to avoid multiple plugs and adapters. Use a sunglasses case to store cords, earbuds, and chargers, and to prevent annoying tangles. Have your laptop easily accessible / removable for the security scanning point

9. Invest in noise cancelling headphones

A good set of earphones makes planes so much more comfortable. Keep your sanity and listen to something of your choice!

10. Wear Your Bulkiest Items

If you are heading somewhere chilly and will need a jacket or a sweater, don’t try squeezing it in your suitcase as it will take-up half your luggage, just wear it and save space.