Why Brits Are Over-Packing: Insights from the Latest Suitcase Study

With the summer getaway season now in full swing, new research¹ from Heathrow Express reveals the extraordinary – and sometimes comical – lengths British travellers will go in their mission to fit all holiday essentials in their suitcases.

From layering up like a human closet (54%), to squeezing entire outfits in pillowcases disguised as travel pillows (13%), it turns out beating the baggage scale has become a national sport.

According to the study, nearly three-quarters of Brits (72%) resort to creative packing strategies to take everything with them, with tactics ranging from clever travel hacks to the downright bizarre.

Over a quarter of respondents (28%) say they’ve layered on three to four outfits before reaching the departure desk, while 23% admitted to wearing heavy shoes or hiking boots on the flight to save suitcase space.

Some travellers take it even further. One in ten (9%) have worn a beach towel as a scarf – a figure that jumps to 20% among 25-34 year-olds. Meanwhile, 30% have made space by leaving toiletries behind, and a staggering 36% of 25-34 year-olds have boarded a flight without packing underwear – all in the name of making room for more ‘important items’. 

When it comes to squeezing a little extra into their suitcases, some Brits decide to turn on the charm. Nearly one in ten (9%) admit to joking or even sweet-talking check-in staff in the hopes of side-stepping weight limits. And when all else fails, Brits report spending an average of £44 on extra baggage. 

So the message is clear: the real holiday hack isn’t in your suitcase – it’s on your ticket.

By booking early, savvy travellers can slash their Heathrow Express fare from £25 to just £10³ – freeing up budget to take all the shoes, gadgets, and toiletries they like.

The non-stop 15 minute service from London Paddington to Heathrow Central² doesn’t just save time – it also offers dedicated luggage space and spacious cabins, so travellers can reach the airport in comfort and with everything they need. 

And with kids under 15 travelling free with a paying adult⁴, families can save even more – without cutting corners (or sleeves).

Aoife Considine, Business Lead at Heathrow Express, said: “Packing for a holiday is exciting – so exciting, in fact, that many of us try to take as much as we can to make the most of every moment away.  

We love seeing how resourceful travellers can be, but there’s a smarter way to make sure you can take everything you need.

By saving money on the journey to the airport, you can spend more on what matters – like actually packing that extra outfit, or not having to choose between sandals and sneakers. No towel scarves required.

With spacious carriages, dedicated luggage areas, and fares from just £10, there’s plenty of room – and peace of mind – to start your journey smoothly, right from the train.”