This is a task most people dread, including me. Often we rush out and go on a mad shopping trip just before the holiday looms. Stop and really consider how many clothes do you actually really need.

 A few handy tips are below:

PREPARATION

I used to pack the night before but I have learned my lesson. It's all about planning, considering where you are going and how long for. A trip to Iceland in mid winter you will need different outfits for a trip to the Cayman Islands as the same time of year.

The key is to think about how many outfits you will need. You may want four or five changes for a weekend away but you certainly do not need 14 different outfits for a two week holiday. I admit that used to be me, and my friends used laugh at the amount of outfits and my large suitcase compared to their medium or even small. I always wonder why my suitcase was always overweight even before I arrived at my destination.

 You will need about nine outfits as there will be evenings where stay in at your accommodation and also many places are offer a laundry service and even have self service washing machines.

Get real: Do you really need fifteen pairs of shoes or if you are going to the Caribbean a pair of Ugg boots? We all know the answer but in reality we always bring more for the 'just in case' scenario.

 NOW WHAT TO PACK

 This is tried and tested.

Take the time to make sure you are going to wear everything. Think of your destination - if you are going to a small island in the Maldives you won't be needing to bring that couture Channel evening gown.

 You can mix and match to look different everyday whilst minimising how much you're packing. Keep to generic colours such as white, black and navy blue which are easy to mix. Avoid linen if you can (you may have access to a good steam iron whilst abroad, if you do bring your linen outfits). Linen is a wonderful summer material but it creases badly. With plain bottoms you can wear bright coloured tops - mix and match.

Footwear: You do not need the fifteen pairs of shoes to go with every outfit. If you are going for a beach break then you just need swimwear and flipflop type shoes or even bare feet. Pack neutral shoes that will go with your outfits like metallic, white and even nude colours.

Toiletries: Decant whatever you can. Shops like Muji www.muji.co.uk sell small containers for everything. With the restrictions on liquids (max 100ml) when you fly, their containers are perfect. I pack my toiletries in my suitcase but take a few essentials (mini size available from supermarkets and other outlets)in my hand luggage like wipes and toothbrush and toothpaste. You don't need to pack the entire contents of the bathroom cabinet because most of the time you can buy what you need (if you have forgotten) anything where you are staying.  If you are going somewhere hot, then I would recommend the following must have items:

• Flat sandals with embellishments -   The shops are full of these, ranging from very cheap like Matalan to high end like Salvatore Ferragamo. They look great with maxi dresses and straight cut trousers.
• Wedges - Adds height and in turn makes your legs look longer! They always look fabulous with summer dresses but if you want to get that up-to-date look, try pairing them with wide leg trousers
• Swing Top - The secret of being able to hide the bits you don't like! However becareful as some designs could make you look pregnant. They are pretty, jaunty and so easy to wear and so are essential. Forget the T-Shirt, as Swing Tops are both smart and modern. They are the easiest way to dress up a pair of skinny jeans and also a pair of smart summer shorts.
• Kaftans - The shops are full of them. They are very versatile - worn during the  
• day, over swim wear or dressed up for that evening glamour look. An embellished kaftan will make you look sexy. A shorter kaftan looks fabulous with white wide leg trousers. Team that look up with silver bangles for a night out. A longer kaftan will work better with jeans or tampered trousers.
•  Maxi Dresses - the shops have so much to choose from. A vibrant frock can add instant style and zing. During the day, pair a dress up with flats and for that added zing, add a pair of cute wedges for the evening.
• Swimwear - Don't panic, there are styles for all shapes, but I recommend at least taking two on holiday and do not stick to black!
• Lightweight Scarf - be it cashmere or silk, an essential piece that you just cannot be without! Use it on the plane or when you are in are air-conditioned setting.
• Linen Trousers - So versatile and they look great day or night. 

Underwear: this is crucial. Wearing the right type on holiday will make your outfits look amazing.  Nude/skin tone underwear under white or see-through clothes. The shops are busting with different types of bras - racer back, strapless, convertible in different styles, standard straps, t-shirt moulded or non-moulded, with lace, balcony to just name a few. The secret is to makes sure it fits correctly and wear the one that is suitable for your outfit!

HOW TO PACK

Make sure everything is ironed before you pack. Don't rely on the hotel having a hotel, I did this once and the hotel charged €8 to iron a top! Pack things flat to stop them creasing during the journey, jeans, trousers, skirts at the bottom. Jackets and coats are awkward to pack, either wear one, park it at the bottom or use a suit carrier. The next layer is your dresses, then your tops and bottoms.

Delicate fabrics, colour fast (the may run) should be turned inside out, even wrap in tissues paper. I wrap my footwear in plastic/shoe bags (especially ones with high heels). Place shoes on top or between clothes, will save damage to the shoes/heels. Use underwear or swimwear to fill in the gaps. Place nightwear on top or the clothes you'll require for the moment.

Upon arrival: I find it is best it unpack as soon as you arrive, so think about what you will need when packing. Hang everything, but if it not possible.

How to deal with creases: Some hotels provide/rent irons but not always come with steam. One good solution is to hang an item on the back of the bathroom door - the steam will make the creases drop out. An alternative is to take a travel steamer - same size as a hair dryer and cost less than £30.