I'm a travel agent and booked over 6,000 holidays - here's the travel hack everyone should know

A travel agent with 35 years of experience has revealed the holiday hacks everyone should know about.

Claire Le Moigne, who works as a TUI retail manager, has booked over 6,000 holidays during her career and has ventured to more than than 20 destinations herself.

Along the way, she has picked up plenty of tricks for travelling to make going abroad easier. 

From packing techniques to cutting down on toiletries, the travel agent has revealed all of her best insider tips.

Claire says: 'Over the years I've been on my fair share of trips, but I've also helped all of my customers prepare for their summer holidays. 

'I've picked up lots of tips and tricks along the way when it comes to the essentials we should take away, but I've also seen first-hand some of the biggest mistakes that travellers make with their luggage.'

One technique the travel agent swears by is folding clothes using the 'bundle method' to avoid having to iron whilst away. 

'Nobody wants to spend their time ironing on holiday,' Claire explains. 'I always opt to roll my clothes to help avoid creases and to save space.

Claire Le Moigne (pictured), who works as a TUI retail manager, has booked over 6,000 holidays during her career and has ventured to more than than 20 destinations herself

One technique the travel agent swears by is folding clothes using the 'bundle method' to avoid having to iron whilst away

'If you need that extra bit of compression you can try the 'bundle method' where you wrap larger items around smaller ones.'

She adds: 'That said, if you're someone who doesn't like to unpack their suitcase when you get to your destination, filing your clothes vertically lets you see everything in your case at a glance – you just might need to take more advantage of a travel iron!'

As for saving space, Claire recommends holidaymakers reduce the amount of toiletries they pack.

Instead, the travel agent urges tourists to just purchase the essentials abroad or use smaller containers. 

'Most destinations sell shampoo and body wash, so there's no need to pack the whole bathroom cupboard,' she says.

'Instead, swap out bulky bottles for travel-size refills or reusable containers. Make-up wipes and solid toiletries like shampoo bars can also save space and prevent leaks. 

'If in doubt, it's worth wrapping up a bottle in a plastic bag to prevent any spillages in transit.'

The travel expert also advises packing light, and has a technique on how to do so.

As for saving space, Claire recommends holidaymakers reduce the amount of toiletries they pack

Claire recommends planning out holiday outfits and photographing the clothing combinations to keep track of what's available to wear.

According to research conducted by TUI, a whopping 88 per cent of Brits pack clothes that they don't end up wearing on holiday. 

'Before you pop clothes in a suitcase plan out which items you can use for which outfit and try them on – take a quick picture and then you'll be able to remember exactly what options you have,' the travel agent explains.

'I tend to do this a couple of weeks before I pack, ensuring I've got myself covered for evening outfit changes too. I make sure to leave plenty of room for shoe options!

'It's also a good idea to pack outfits that can be mixed and matched. For example, three different tops that go with two different pairs of shorts.'

Another helpful tip that many travellers might not consider is bringing an extra bag for souvenirs or laundry.

Claire reveals, 'I never travel without a foldable tote bag when I go on holiday.

'They pack away super small, but they're so handy for any items I accumulate over the day – whether that's souvenirs or even dirty clothes from the kids!

Claire recommends planning out holiday outfits and photographing the clothing combinations to keep track of what's available to wear

'Whether I need some extra room whilst trekking around a city or want a beach bag on a fly and flop break, it always comes in handy.'

Claire also shared her must-have items for flights and how to stay comfortable during plane journeys.

'It's a given that eye masks, earplugs and noise-cancelling headphones are essential for comfort on a plane, but one thing a lot of people forget to bring is a reusable water bottle,' she adds.

'You can refill it after security, and cabin crew are often able to top you up during long flights too – this is a great money saving hack so you don't end up spending extra pounds on disposable bottles for the whole family!'

The travel agent stressed the importance of staying hydrated while flying and and revealed she brings a facemask for longer haul flights to help stay feeling refreshed.