'I tried a packing hack to save on luggage fees - and it was a total gamechanger'

Preparing for a can either go smoothly or be absolute hell, with packing a suitcase taking major elbow grease. Luggage can also flag up some issues at the airport, where you may be made to fork out money if your bag is overweight.

Trying to fit all your winter , like thick coats, jackets and woolly jumpers into a small carry-on can be a task in itself, but reporter Vita Molyneux tested out a clever to make sure it can fit. Most airlines include a free small under the seat carry-on bag with tickets, but you'll have to pay for anything larger.

Vita came armed with a vacuum seal bag and the tried and tested Marie Kondo method. This is how it went, as reported in the .

"With Christmas fast approaching, many of us are preparing to travel for the festive season. However, packing for a winter holiday can be a challenge, especially when trying to fit bulky items like coats and jumpers into a small carry-on bag.

"Thankfully, experts have shared some handy tips to help you pack more efficiently this Christmas, including using vacuum seal bags for larger items.

"This trick was a lifesaver when I moved from New Zealand to England and had to fit all my belongings into one suitcase. I managed to squeeze in three large winter coats, several pairs of trousers, jumpers, scarves and all my summer clothes. However, it's important to remember that while vacuum sealing allows you to fit more in, weight limits still apply.

"So, always weigh your bag before travelling. If you're using this hack for a carry-on bag, which is less likely to be weighed, you could avoid extra charges. Just make sure the vacuum seal bags you buy come with a hand pump so you can easily repack them at the end of your trip

"The KonMari method (a packing method inspired by organisation guru Marie Kondo) involves folding clothes into compact rectangles that can stand upright in your suitcase, which is particularly beneficial for bulky jumpers and layers.

"Fold each jumper by bringing one side toward the centre, folding the sleeve in and repeating on the other side to create a compact rectangle. Then fold it in half or thirds and stand it upright. This method saves space, keeps items accessible and prevents your suitcase from becoming disorganised.

"When it comes to keeping things tidy, it's worth investing in accessory organisers for your jewellery and electronics to avoid things getting tangled or misplaced."