Even if you're not a backpacker any more, there are still plenty of advantages to packing light. However, this is sometimes more difficult than it might seem, especially if you are taking a long trip. Here are just a few of the things which you can to make sure that you pack light for any trip you take.

Lugging heavy luggage around can become a burden on your trip, and often it's not necessary. A little research can often help you to cut down dramatically on what you need to pack. If your hotel offers towels, then you might not need to pack your own. Similarly, you might discover that you are better off packing a laptop to play games of partypoker and solitaire, rather than packing a huge range of board games to keep you entertained. Find out what you can be expect to be provided for you and think about the best ways to keep anything that you do need to pack to a minimum.

Soft bags are often lighter to carry and can sometimes make it easier to pack more items into a smaller space. Use soft holdalls with plenty of pockets to avoid misplacing smaller items. Soft bags don't have to be rucksacks - some will even have wheels attached so you can wheel them along much like a suitcase. Even those who have packed lightly can sometimes struggle to carry their luggage everywhere they go, so this can be a useful solution.

When it comes to clothing, it can be advisable to wear your bulkier items on the plane, although you will want to make sure that you are still comfortable during your journey. Look out for versatile items - such a trousers with removable legs that will double up as shorts, or a maxi skirt which can be worn with as waist belt as a midi dress. This will give you more clothing options, without meaning you have to pack your entire wardrobe.