The secret to packing light is not about deprivation — it is about choosing versatile pieces that layer well and suit multiple occasions.

Start with a colour palette. Pick three neutral tones that mix and match, and build every outfit from those. Two pairs of shoes maximum: one walkable, one slightly dressier.

Rolling beats folding. Packing cubes keep everything organised and compressed. Toiletries go in a clear bag, decanted into travel-size bottles.

The single most powerful packing hack: wear your heaviest items (jacket, boots) on the plane. That alone can save a third of your bag space.