With Easter approaching, thousands of Brits have their holidays planned and if you’re one of them, you need to know how to pack properly. Being an efficient packer is so much more than throwing things in your suitcase – it takes skill and patience, and according to Your Co-Op travel agent Claire Franklin, a certain amount of knowledge.

That’s why Franklin has shared her top tips for packing including the one item she won’t go on holiday without. Her top essential item is a simple one: a lightweight tote bag, ideally a foldable one. She said: “They often prove handy for supermarket trips and picking up souvenirs.

“Alternatively, they’re great to use as a lightweight extra as part of your hand luggage if you can’t fit all your essentials in your day bag, or if you need to pick up some last-minute items at the airport once you’re through security.”

Another key item is an eye mask – especially if you’re travelling long haul. She said: “Not only will they block out any lighting on a plane, they’re also useful if your accommodation doesn’t have black out blinds or if you need to catch up on sleep during the day to get through jet lag.”

When it comes to actually physically packing your bag, Franklin recommends making sure all your late-night essentials go in last – things like toothbrushes and pyjamas, so they are at your hands when you land at your destination.

She said: “Pack pyjamas and must-haves last so they’re easy to grab when you open your suitcase. That way, you can jump straight into bed – or have easy access to chargers, medication, and toiletries — without digging through everything.”

Another genius tip is to use packing cubes, but not how you might be thinking.

Franklin recommends rather than using packing cubes for shirts, trousers and underwear separately as is instinctual, you should pack them per day. If each cube has that day’s outfit in it, it makes getting ready a breeze. She said: “If you’re sharing a suitcase with little ones – or packing for children – instead of using a packing cube per person, try packing by day, with one cube filled with everything the family needs for day one, day two, day three and so on.

“This’ll make unpacking and repacking while travelling much easier, particularly if you’re moving locations or accommodation.”