BEING Deputy Travel Editor of the biggest newspaper in the UK, it's no wonder I've racked up quite a few countries. Set to travel to my 50th country this year, it also means I've learned all the best ways to avoid paying for hand luggage. Ever since my days of being a budget traveller, I always hate checking in bags.
It's almost a running joke how I'll have the smallest suitcase, with friends checking in multiple suitcases while I have my tiny suitcase. But not only is it a money-saver, but it's also a time-saver, often being able to whizz out of the airport while they hang about at baggage claim . So here are my top three tips to avoiding paying for luggage - but without scrimping on everything you need.
Read more on packing Hack your toiletries The biggest problem with hand luggage isn't fitting in all of the clothes, but trying to take enough liquids. There are a few ways round that I swear by. If you are someone who needs a lot of things, then there is the Boots Click & Collect hack.
This means you can order everything you need, go through security and then pick up your order - with full size toiletries - inside. Most read in News Travel The only downside is you'll have to use them all up, or throw them before coming home. Otherwise I tend to try and 'hack' my toiletries, thanks to a number of solid items.
For example, these solid toothpaste tabs mean you can ditch the liquid toothpaste. Most hotels have shampoo and body wash, so I often only pack conditioner. This is mad.