Travel expert shares the 1 mistake ‘many people’ make when packing for holidays

An expert has shared his top packing tips for a long weekend, including the one thing that many travellers get wrong

An expert has shared his top packing tips for a long weekend (Image: Getty )

If you’re one of the many who fret about potential holiday mishaps, a weekend staycation can seem even more daunting. What if you need a smart pair of shoes for a dinner at a posh restaurant? What if it suddenly pours down? Will there be an opportunity to hit the beach?

Richard Edwards, travel expert and owner of White House Hideaway, has shared a simple luggage packing trick that could make your trip easier.

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In fact, there’s a common packing mistake that “many people” make when they’re off for a long weekend, reports the Express.

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“They pick a large bag thinking they need the space, then feel compelled to fill it,” warns Edwards.

The physical limitation forces you to be more discerning about what you pack.

However, there are other top tips to help streamline the whole process, starting with a capsule wardrobe.

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A capsule wardrobe might include a comfy pair of jeans, two tops and a light jacket to create various outfits. To maintain a consistent look, it’s recommended to select a colour scheme of two to three hues.

Are you guilty of making a common packing mistake? (Image: Getty )

“Think about what you’ll actually be doing, not what you might do,” suggests Edwards.

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And it’s worth checking the weather forecast and reviewing which activities you have scheduled.

“Also check your accommodation’s amenities — many staycation spots provide basics like toiletries, towels, and hairdryers, so you don’t need to pack them,” recommends travel expert Edwards.

Edwards also suggests a clever technique for stowing away garments: “Rolling can easily save you 30% of your packing space,” he explains. “Plus, everything stays more organised when you can see each item clearly.”

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Rolling clothes can help to maximise space (Image: Getty )

Moreover, experts urge holidaymakers to eschew the “just in case” mindset by packing for only a week, even if their getaway is merely a weekend-long caper.

Opting for a lighter suitcase can expedite the start of your holiday, as it lessens the time spent unpacking upon arrival at your destination.

Wetherspoons punter asked about huge refurb – her response is brilliantly honest

The Kent branch recently underwent a £750,000 refurb

The pub has recently undergone a £750,000 refurbishment (Image: KMG / SWNS )

The UK’s largest Wetherspoons has had a costly makeover, but some drinkers haven’t even noticed.

Publican Tim Martin’s pub branch The Royal Victorian Pavilion in Ramsgate has recently benefited from a £750,000 refurbishment, with the pub aiming to stand out as one of the key buildings in the area.

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When quizzed by a reporter on their thoughts regarding the refreshed interiors of the site, one patron surprisingly confessed they had not noticed the refurbishments, casually mentioning an inclination to pinch one of the flowers.

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Discussing with the Telegraph, the pub-goer remarked: “I’m not sure what they’ve done apart from plant these flowers, which look nice – I might slip them into my handbag.”

Housed within a Grade-II listed edifice, the public house sprawls across 11,000 square feet and has the capacity to host up to 1,400 punters, reports the Express.

The establishment was initially built in 1903, serving as a concert and assembly hall with its decor influenced by Versailles’ Petite Trianon.

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After being a nightclub and a casino, it shut down in 2008. In a turn of fortune, Wetherspoons took over in 2017, injecting £4.5 million into renovations to resurrect the landmark.

Ahead of the recent investment at the end of 2024, Chris Whitbourn, the pub’s manager, shared with the Express that the facelift was undertaken to stimulate economic growth in the locale.

A visitor to the UK’s largest Wetherspoons had an intriguing comment about the decor (Image: KMG / SWNS )

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He detailed: “Wetherspoon is spending £750,000 on the pub, providing further substantial investment into the area.

“Myself and my team will look forward to welcoming customers back into Royal Victoria Pavilion, in December, and we are confident that they will be impressed by the refurbishment.”

The Wetherspoons chain has once again made headlines as it prepares to debut on the renowned Isle of Man, celebrated for hosting the legendary Isle of Man TT motorcycle races.

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The establishment, named The Conister Arms, marks the chain’s inaugural venture on the island and opened its doors last month. Regarding this development, Wetherspoons commented: “The Conister Arms is named after a partly submerged rock in Douglas Bay.

“Situated at the very heart of Douglas city centre, the venue boasts a capacity for 725 patrons spread over four floors, with additional outdoor seating, positioning it as one of the Isle of Man’s most sizeable hospitality establishments.”

Nine things you should never put in your garden waste bin or face a fine

With warmer weather luring homeowners back outside, gardeners are being urged to think twice before filling up their green or brown bins during a garden spruce-up

Bunging anything into garden waste bins is a bad idea and could lead to big fines – or it going uncollected (Image: Tim Grist Photography via Getty Images )

Households are being cautioned about nine potential garden bin blunders that could result in a hefty fine. With the warmer weather enticing homeowners back outdoors, garden enthusiasts are being advised to think carefully before filling their green or brown bins during a garden tidy-up.

Incorrectly disposing of certain types of rubbish in your green or brown garden bin could lead to fines of up to £5,000 or even a criminal record. While regulations differ by council, there are several items that are typically prohibited and any mistakes could result in a fine or warning.

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Some councils will just leave your full bin in the street if it contains prohibited items – others may decided to prosecute. One council’s advice says: “If our crews report that your bin has the wrong items in it, we will not return before the next scheduled collection. You will also need to make sure you have removed the wrong items before you put it out again on your next scheduled collection.”

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You can check your local council’s website or use the gov.uk bin checker to see exactly what’s allowed in your area.

Here are nine items you should never discard in your garden bin this summer.

Japanese knotweed

This tops the list of costly mistakes, as this fast-growing invasive plant is banned from being disposed of in your garden bin. This aggressive species is categorised as controlled waste under the Environmental Protection Act 1990, and incorrect disposal could lead to serious penalties.

Failure to adhere to the rules could result in a £5,000 fine or up to two years in prison under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 if the plant spreads into the wild. Jennifer Holmes, from Japanese Knotweed Ltd, warned: “It can be easy to think that binning noxious plant material won’t be noticed, but in reality, you could get caught by the council.” Furthermore, not having knotweed disposed of under UK legislative rules means you’re harming the environment.

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She further advised: “If you think you have knotweed on your property, do not dig it up yourself. You’ll just be encouraging the plant to spread. It is an illegal act to dispose of it yourself.”

Soil or compost

While plants may be welcome in the brown bin, their roots must be clean. Most councils ban soil or compost as it can contaminate the composting process and weigh down collection trucks. Shake off as much earth as possible from roots before binning plants.

Food waste (cooked or raw)

Even peelings and fruit scraps are usually not allowed. Garden bins are typically for green waste only and food scraps belong in your kitchen caddy or grey bin, depending on your council’s setup. Mixing the two can attract pests and create hygiene issues.

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Plant pots

Regardless of whether they’re plastic, ceramic or biodegradable – it doesn’t matter. Pots, trays and growbags can’t go in garden bins.

They need to go in general waste or recycling, depending on the material and council policy. They’re considered non-organic contamination.

Plastic bags

Even “compostable” or “biodegradable” bags are usually banned from garden bins, as they often don’t break down properly in industrial composting. Always tip garden waste in loose or use council-approved compostable liners if allowed.

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One council said: “Liners, bags or sacks – they get entangled in the machinery that shreds the garden waste, and the shredded plastic also contaminates the compost which is produced.”

Timber or treated wood

Old fence panels, decking and garden furniture can’t go in your brown bin. Wood is not the same as green waste especially if it’s treated with preservatives or paint.

Rubble, hardcore or stones

Materials that can release harmful chemicals when composted, such as rubble hardcore or stones, are not to be included. These heavy garden leftovers like bricks, concrete and stones are categorised as construction waste, not green waste.

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Most councils won’t collect these in standard garden bins, and including them can damage collection machinery.

Pet waste

Pet waste, including dog and cat waste (even if bagged), is prohibited from garden bins. It’s a biohazard, can’t be safely composted, and must be disposed of in general waste. Some councils accept it in special biodegradable bags but always check.

Liquids or chemicals

Liquids or chemicals should never be poured into your garden bin. These can contaminate the entire load and are dangerous for workers and the environment. Most need to go to special waste disposal centres. It’s important to note that rules will vary between local authorities.

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A general rule to go by is if in doubt, don’t chuck it out. Instead, head to your local council’s website or use the gov.uk bin checker to see exactly what’s allowed in your area.

Picking flowers, sunbathing and barbecues could all see you fined

A legal expert has warned of the consequences of some common sunny-day activities

Picking wildflowers seems like an innocent activity

Picking flowers, taking a walk, or sunbathing could all land you in trouble and possibly see you fined – according to legal experts. Nicholas Tate, a legal expert at InjuryClaims.co.uk , says six common outdoor activities could quickly take a turn for the worse and see you in trouble with the law.

1. Picking flowers

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It’s a classic springtime activity — picking wildflowers during a walk in the countryside. The sight of daffodils or bluebells in bloom might tempt you to collect a few for a vase at home, but before you start gathering, you should be aware of the laws surrounding this.

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Under Section 4(3) of the Theft Act 1968, and The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, picking wildflowers is not automatically considered theft unless done with the intent to sell them. So, picking flowers for personal enjoyment is generally fine. However, if you’re picking flowers from someone’s garden or from cultivated areas, that can be classified as theft. Additionally, some wild plants are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, and it’s illegal to uproot or destroy certain species, like orchids or rare ferns.

Nicholas said: “It’s important to know what’s protected by law and to respect private property. Picking wildflowers for yourself is harmless, but it’s crucial to avoid protected species and ensure you’re not taking from someone else’s garden or a floral display in public parks.”

2. Sunbathing

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We all love a little sun after months of grey skies, but stripping off in public to catch some rays can sometimes lead to legal headaches. In the UK, topless sunbathing is perfectly legal for both men and women, and full public nudity isn’t a crime either, as long as you’re not causing alarm or distress.

However, Section 66 of the Sexual Offences Act 2003 prohibits intentional exposure of your genitals with the intent to cause distress or alarm to others. Public nudity can also fall under Public Order Act 1986, Section 5, which criminalises threatening, abusive, or disorderly behaviour that is likely to cause harassment, alarm, or distress to others.

If you’re sunbathing in your own garden, these rules still apply. Nicholas said: “Even in your own space, it’s a good idea to keep things private. A quick chat with your neighbours or opting for a more secluded spot might save you from a call to the police.”

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3. Disposable BBQs

Spring often means barbecues, but if you’re using a disposable one, you could be unknowingly breaking the law. In 2023, the Home Office revealed that disposable barbecues were responsible for around 4% of UK wildfires, prompting widespread concern. Some local councils, including those in Bradford and Brighton, have implemented bans on disposable barbecues in public spaces, with fines of up to £100 for those caught using them.

While there isn’t a nationwide ban yet, certain areas have strict regulations. The risks posed to wildlife and the environment by disposable barbecues have prompted petitions to ban them entirely, with nearly 30,000 signatures in 2023.

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Nicholas Tate suggests, “Check your local council’s rules before lighting up, as the regulations can vary widely. If you’re in a public space, be mindful of the impact you’re having on the environment. It might be worth investing in a more sustainable option.”

4. The ‘Right to Roam’

In the UK, certain areas like moors, heaths, and downs are designated as “open access land,” meaning you’re generally free to roam even if the land is privately owned. However, there are specific rules in place to protect both the land and wildlife.

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From March 1 to July 31, you must keep your dog on a lead no longer than two metres to protect ground-nesting birds. Additionally, dogs should always be kept on a lead when near livestock. Section 3 of the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 sets out these rules and applies to much of the open access land.

While walking is allowed, driving, camping, and water sports are prohibited, and bringing any animal other than a dog is also against the law. Horse riding and cycling are permitted in some cases, provided the landowner allows it, public bridleways or byways cross the land, or local traditions or rights of access exist.

Nicholas said: “You don’t have to miss out on enjoying the outdoors, but just be aware that the rules are there to protect both wildlife and people. Always double-check before you bring your four-legged friend along for the adventure.”

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5. Littering

Spring is the season of beach days and picnics in parks, but one thing to watch out for is littering. The temptation to leave behind a plastic bottle or food wrapper can have serious consequences. Under the Environmental Protection Act 1990, littering is an offence, and local councils have the power to issue fines for anyone caught leaving rubbish behind.

In some areas, particularly around beaches, you may find higher fines due to the risk of harming wildlife, especially in coastal areas where plastic waste can be ingested by marine creatures.

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Nicholas said: “It might seem harmless to leave a sandwich wrapper or a bottle behind, but the consequences go beyond just the fine. Wildlife can be at risk, and you could end up with a hefty fine for your carelessness.”

6. Feeding wildlife in public areas

While feeding the ducks at the local park or the birds at a nature reserve might seem like an innocent pastime, it can actually lead to legal consequences. Many UK councils have implemented rules banning the feeding of wildlife in public spaces to avoid disrupting natural diets and ecosystems. Overfeeding wild animals can also attract pests and make animals reliant on human food, which can negatively impact their health.

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In areas where feeding wildlife is banned, you could face a fine or be asked to leave the area. It’s always best to avoid feeding wildlife in public places unless you’re in a designated area where it’s allowed.

Nicholas said: “Feeding animals might feel like a kind gesture, but it could harm the wildlife and disrupt the balance of the ecosystem. Stick to observing them from a distance and keep your food to yourself.”

Sudden appearance of hundreds of Monopoly boxes leaves neighbourhood puzzled

People have been left baffled after a massive pile of boxes of Monopoly appeared in a front garden, with no obvious explanation as to why or how they came to be there

Hundreds of Monopoly board games appeared in front of a home, prompting wild theories on Reddit (stock) (Image: Getty Images/Christopher Furlong )

People have been left scratching their heads following the discovery of hundreds of Monopoly board games dumped in a front garden. One baffled local took to Reddit to share a photo of the bizarre sight, which showed a huge pile of boxes of the popular game on the overgrown driveway of a bungalow.

“Anyone wanna play monopoly? Got a neighbour who’s getting rid of a few sets,” they joked. “Just for reference, I have no idea what’s going on, I just walked past this house and it looks abandoned.”

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The collection wasn’t just made up of standard versions of the Hasbro classic either, with editions ranging from Elf and Minions to World Football Stars. The strange spot duly sparked a flurry of wild theories about how it came to be.

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READ MORE: Woman sees Ferrari parked outside charity shop – then is gobsmacked when she walks in

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One person suggested: “To come up with a totally random theory, perhaps someone who collected them died, and the family didn’t know what to do with them, reselling didn’t seem worth it since it’s such a niche thing to collect without much resale value.

“So they chucked them out while cleaning the house, maybe planning on getting a tip in to collect them at some point. I’d imagine there are funko pops collections which may experience a similar fate, if the next of kin don’t have storage to stick them all in boxes and forget about them.”

Another Reddit user speculated: “My guess is messy divorce. They know they’ll be round in a couple of days to save the collection so the collection is spending those days in the rain.”

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A third quipped: “My guess is that the wife of a board game collector found out he had been playing tiddlywinks with another woman and when he’d gone off to the national Ludo convention she dumped his prized Monopoly collection on the drive and changed the locks.”

Meanwhile, a fourth pondered: “My guess is someone has cleared out a warehouse/storage unit of unsold stock and flytipped everything at this abandoned house? Either that or a hoarder/collector/reseller lived at this house and has died or been sent to a home.

“The latter doesn’t seem so likely to me though as whoever would do that would be a monumental moron to not just give them to charity, try to sell them or at the very least put it all in a skip.”

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Others noted the potential value of the discarded games, with some modern editions of Monopoly fetching between £15 to £30. “That is like at least a couple thousand pounds’ worth of Monopoly just left there to rot, sad to see,” lamented one observer.