I have been caught out way too many times when travelling – my luggage has not arrived on time, my suitcase been lost in transit or picking up bags from the baggage carousel has meant I’ve missed connections. So I always try and fly with hand luggage only. It can save a lot of stress if you have tight or multiple connections and need to hit the ground running.

1. Embrace the capsule wardrobe

I always plan my outfits ahead of time, this saves you packing extra clothes that you will not wear. Always stick to a similar colour palette, for me it’s usually black, white and navy blue. And make sure you include versatile items that can be worn for multiple occasions. For instance, I’ve a pair of black trousers that can be worn for conferences and dressed up at night with a different top.

2. Shoe rules

I had to break my rule of only packing 1 pair of shoes. Because I was training for the Hyrox Fitness competition (happening on the day I landed back in London!) I had to bring a pair of bulky trainers, that took up valuable space in the case. I stuffed each shoe with socks and underwear to create a bit more room. I also had to bring a pair of heels for the conference I was speaking at – again I try to stuff my shoes with socks, this also helps them keep their shape in your suitcase.

3. Shoe coverings

I never place shoes directly into a suitcase without putting them in a covering of some sort or a shoe bag. The soles of the shoes are the dirtiest part – there’s not only thousands of bacteria per square inch, but it could also dirty your clothes. On this trip, I covered each shoe in a shower cap. I like to collect the disposable shower caps that most hotels supply in their bathrooms. This is great for protecting your bag and clothes from the dirt and soil on the bottom of your shoes.

4. Compression cubes

A compression packing cube also came in handy – I stuffed it with a variety of t-shirts, dresses, shorts and gym gear – all of a similar colour palette. I folded, then rolled! I find rolling is more space efficient, but your clothes are generally more creased at your destination. And given that so many hotels these days don’t have an iron, this can be a bit of a pain. But I find hanging your clothes in a steamy shower once you arrive can help remove some of the creases.

5. Toiletries

My toiletries bag consists of mini everything. I like to re-use and re-fill small containers with moisturisers, creams and conditioners from home. I generally don’t pack my own shampoo as most hotels will supply this, but I find conditioner is essential. And of course, you cannot take things like nail clippers, scissors or razors when you are travelling with only hand luggage, but again, most hotels can help source or supply you with these items.

6. Tech tangle

I like to pack cables, power banks, chargers and other tech in a separate pouch to stop them getting tangled. It’s also great to have everything in one place so you know what you will need and can see if anything is missing.