If you've ever resorted to sitting on your suitcase whilst straining to pull the zip around its bulging girth, you need a holiday take-away solution that'll help lighten the load without lightening your wallet.

At McArthurGlen Designer Outlets, you can stock up on holiday essentials at up to 50 per cent off typical retail prices.

Here's top ten tips from McArthurGlen on packing the perfect holiday suitcase - whether you're a beach babe, cultural chick or trekking temptress.

1. Rolling along

Start with a sturdy suitcase with wheels. Not only will its hard sides help prevent a wrinkled holiday wardrobe, but the wheels mean easy carrying. The more brightly coloured your case is the better - as you'll be able to spot it easily on the carousel.

2. Colour co-ordinate

Travel light by co-ordinating your holiday clothes. Pick and mix your basics and you'll never be short of something to wear. Sun dresses, t-shirts, vest-tops and shorts in neutral and bold colours make it easy to create a capsule wardrobe.

3. Space saver

Suitcase space is of the essence so invest in travel-sized versions of your favourite toiletries and pack a mini travel hair dryer. Shoes are difficult to pack given their bulk so wear the heaviest pair for travelling in. Don't forget the space inside your shoes - handy for storing fragile items or anything that fits. Remember that empty camera film canisters are ideal for taking small items like earrings and jewellery - and they'll fit inside a shoe for extra protection.

4. Crease-free clothes

Roll clothes instead of folding them to help prevent creases and put a tumble dry sheet in your case so clothes smell fresh on arrival. Remember that size does matter - a large suitcase half full means plenty of creased clothes. Consider downsizing your case.

5. Bikini babe

Pack a sarong so you can walk about whilst still in your bikini and a pair of beach shoes to save your soles from sharp rocks. Take a canvas beach bag as this can be rolled up easily in your case - or use it as carry-on luggage for the flight.

6. Sun safe

Heads and noses are particularly sensitive to the sun, so pack a sun-hat or cap for protection. Take plenty of high-factor sun-screen and soothing after sun.

7. Pack plastic

Pack plenty of plastic and by that we don't mean credit cards. Use plastic bags to pack toiletries - should they leak they won't ruin your clothes. They can also be layered between clothes to help prevent creases. Similarly, use them for bringing home dirty clothing, shoes or wet towels.

8. Music to your ears

For a restful flight pack a walkman - useful not only to block out the sounds of snoring passengers, but also if you're staying near a noisy resort.

9. Emergency Essentials

Pack a small first-aid kit and ensure you have plenty of mosquito repellent. A sewing kit is also a valuable addition, and take a waterproof raincoat - the rain in Spain doesn't always fall on the plain!

10. Ensure you're insured

Make sure you have adequate travel insurance (you'll need special insurance if you're planning any adventurous sports) and don't forget passports, money and tickets! Bon Voyage!