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A frequent traveller has shared his top tips for anyone heading off on a city break – and it’s all about the luggage you use

When you’re jetting off on an autumn city break, there’s one crucial travel hack you absolutely must know about. If you’re not a regular flyer, you might assume the smartest way to pack is with a suitcase – but you’d be completely wrong.

Actually, one seasoned traveller is encouraging everyone to abandon their suitcases in favour of backpacks. Netflights chatted with Karl Loudon from PR firm Rise at Seven about his essential travel advice.

Karl jets off at least twice monthly for business and knows airports like the back of his hand, reports the Express.

His number one suggestion was that anyone embarking on a city adventure should opt for a backpack instead of a suitcase.

He said: “A wheelie trolley case always feels like a clever idea, but they end up being a pain when travelling in cities.

“Travelling with a backpack that complies with the airline’s luggage allowance allows you to pack plenty inside it, and it is much more practical to travel with.

“Find backpacks online titled ‘MLC’ (maximum legal carry on), which are the best luggage to use.”

For those with both hand luggage and checked baggage, Karl also suggests always stashing an extra T-shirt in your carry-on.

Aircraft seats can be tight, accidents occur and you don’t want to arrive at your destination looking dishevelled and feeling uncomfortable.

If you’re jetting off for work, don’t forget that your laptop can double up as a power bank, saving you precious luggage space.

Karl said: “When travelling, organise your cables prior to flying. Remember, you might not need a power bank when travelling, as your laptop is one giant power bank, which many travellers forget about.”

Resist the urge to flop onto your hotel bed as soon as you arrive at your destination. Instead, stretch your legs with a brisk walk to shake off the travel fatigue and get your bearings.

If you’ve been on a long-haul flight, this simple trick can help alleviate jetlag and reduce your risk of deep vein thrombosis.

Frequent flyers should be aware of the risk of deep vein thrombosis, but regular stretching and exercise can help keep it at bay.

This weekend’s East Midlands derby against Leicester Tigers will be Smith’s first game since the British & Irish Lions tour of Australia, having completed his mandatory rest period.

He described the experience as “an absolute privilege”, while admitting to being frustrated with his performances on the pitch.

“When I reflect on it, no one can take that series from me,” he said.

“It is the pinnacle of the sport, but I have enough self-awareness to realise I didn’t play my best rugby on tour and it didn’t go as I would have liked.

“But in terms of the experience, the scale, being around the best players in the world is such a brilliant thing.

“Having been away from the game, gone on my holidays, digested that, it’s been nice to take the emotion out of it.

“Whilst I might have been on one hand frustrated, what can I learn, what can I take out of it and bring back into this season, how do I keep getting better? It starts this Saturday.”

Northampton expect to welcome back all of their four Lions players – Smith, Henry Pollock, Tommy Freeman and Alex Mitchell – to take on the Tigers.

“I am desperate to play well but I am well aware that if you try to pull rabbits out of hats and have the best game of your life it will go the other way,” Smith said.

“I need to stay nice and calm, do my job and hopefully that will lead to me performing well and impressing the powers that be.

“But first and foremost we need a good result for the town.”

WE all like to think that we’d beat the scammers if they came knocking – but are you really that savvy?

After all, the latest Global Anti-Scam Alliance report warns that people in the UK lost £11.4billion to scams in the last year – up £4billion on the year before.

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And the average loss per victim was £1,400, with just 18% recovering their money.

This is at a time when we hear about how to spot scams more than ever, and we have gadgets laden with scam-busting tools.

We spoke to several security experts who revealed five of the most simple-but-effective scams going – they’re all shockingly common AND easy to spot… but repeatedly catch out Brits.

So, are you STILL so sure you’d spot them coming?

SCAM 1 – EMAIL EXTORTION

One of the most twisted scams being delivered to Brits is email extortion, often with a sexual spin.

Sometimes this might involve genuine blackmail, but often hackers simply fabricate dodgy evidence to scare you.

This is a cheap and easy tactic that Brits do fall for.

“Blackmail scams claim to know damaging information about a victim, demanding payment to keep quiet,” said Chris Hauk, of Pixel Privacy, speaking to The Sun.

“Victims are told they have been recorded doing disgusting things while at their computer or using their mobile device, and that the video will be sent to friends, family, and employers if they do not pay up.”

These claims can be scary, and there’s a sinister trick that crooks pull to make them even more convincing.

They’ll use fake email addresses that look like your own account to hoodwink you.

“Email extortion scams claiming to have compromising pictures of end-users in intimate moments are quite common, and remain some of the most prevalent scams on the internet these days,” said Michael Tigges of Huntress.

“An adversary will often spoof the email addresses in the mail and generate an email that appears as if it was sent from the user’s own email account and claim to have access to all accounts.

“They will ask for money, cryptocurrency, etc., to avoid ‘leaking’ these pictures or videos.”

Staying Safe

It’s important to not give in to the scammer’s demands.

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In the first place, even if the material that the crook has is legitimate, paying them won’t help. They might just take your money and share it anyway.

But in most cases, the crooks have simply invented the dodgy material – and won’t show any real proof that they have it.

It’s best to just ignore these scam messages. Interacting with the crook shows that your email is active and that you’re willing to engage.

And that could lead to them targeting you with other scams down the line, or trying a different tactic on you.

SCAM 2 – TECH SUPPORT

Next up is the iconic tech support scam, which still successfully hoodwinks unsuspecting Brits.

“Tech support scams are another classic,” Proton’s Patricia Egger told The Sun.

She described it as “a pop-up or call pretending to be from Microsoft or Apple, pushing you to hand over control of your computer or bank details”.

It might sound obvious, but they often come out of the blue and catch you off-guard.

And with years of experience under their belts (and now the power of AI), scammers can generate highly convincing fake alerts.

“Fake tech support scams are also highly common,” Michael Tigges, a security analyst at Huntress, told The Sun.

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“A website will generate a ‘notification’ prompt in modern browsers which mimics an anti-virus/Microsoft notification and asks the end-user to call a number controlled by the adversary.

“That person will then remotely access the computer and either install malware, or remotely fake a number of ‘tech issues’ that must be fixed for a fee.”

Staying Safe

Be extremely sceptical of any mysterious pop-ups.

Look out for typos, bizarre requests (for passwords or money), aggressive wording, and unusual styling (does it fit how your device normally looks?).

And if you’re unsure, check with your device maker to see if it’s legit.

SCAM 3 – THE URGENT PROBLEM

Another iconic scam that gets Brits is the urgent problem con.

This is extremely simple – and that’s what makes it so effective.

“The scams that catch people out most often are usually the simplest,” Proton’s Patricia Egger told us.

“Fake texts or emails saying you’ve missed a delivery, owe tax, or need to fix a bank problem are still everywhere.

“And they work because they create a sense of urgency that does away with calm and clear thinking.”

Crooks can deliver this kind of scam in bulk – hitting hundreds, thousands, or even tens of thousands of targets.

And they just need a fraction of those targets to bite, allowing them scoop up prized info or cash.

It can take many forms, but the style is always the same: you must act quickly, or you’ll be handed a bill.

“A victim is told they have several outstanding fines or payments that must be paid immediately or they’ll face prosecution,” Chris Hauk told us.

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“However, if they just go and buy several gift cards amounting to the outstanding sum and provide the information to the scammer, all will be forgiven.

“Emails and text messages claim that sums of money are owed either for a debt, or a fine, or even a toll road fee.

“They may also provide a link to pay that is actually to a malicious site designed to harvest financial information from the victim.”

Staying Safe

Scammers don’t want you to have time to think things over or to check out their story.

Chris HaukPixel Privacy

If you ever receive an urgent alert, pause – don’t act fast.

Instead, reach out directly to the company that the alert claims to be from.

Use the official phone number or email on the website, and not the one you’ve been sent with the alert.

And if the fine or charge comes from a suspicious company you’ve never heard of, do your research. Is it a real company? Does it have an online presence or reviews? Is it registered on Companies House? Who runs it?

Ask these questions before handing over any cash.

Chris added: “Scammers don’t want you to have time to think things over or to check out their story.”

SCAM 4 – THE FAKE JOB

The fake job scam is one of the most nefarious cons out there.

It’s almost unimaginable to think that you’d fall for such a wheeze. Surely you’d spot a fake job a mile off?

But it’s easy to forget that when you’re hunting for a new role, you might be feeling particularly desperate.

And as the cost of living goes up, Brits can be tempted by easy money or a more relaxed working environment.

Crooks know this, and capitalise on it.

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“Fake job offers are also becoming increasingly common, these often sound appealing at first, promising easy money, work-from-home roles, or a big windfall,” Proton’s Patricia Egger told us.

“They hook people with the promise of good news, then demand ‘processing fees’ or bank details.”

She continued: “These tricks work because scammers know how people act in response to emotions, both good and bad.

“And with increasing quantities of data about us online, ‘I’d never fall for that’ is just one data leak away from being untrue.”

Staying Safe

Patricia’s best advice is to watch out for red flags like:

• Unexpected links or attachments in a chat about a job
• Pressure to act immediately
• Being asked to move money for a job or pay fees upfront
• Any perk of the job that seems too good to be true

She added that you should always make sure to “slow down and stay sceptical”.

SCAMS IN 2025 – THE EXPERT VIEW

Here’s what Sean Keach, The Sun’s resident tech expert, thinks…

It’s never been easier to carry out scams.

Cybercriminals have the world’s arsenal of tech at their disposal.

And with AI, they can supercharge their efforts by crafting convincing scam materials in seconds – and then dispensing it to victims just as quickly.

It sounds terrifying, and in many ways, it is.

But there is some good news.

Although scammers can carry out scams more convincingly and at greater speed, they’re still the same classic cons at their core.

And that means the age-old rules you need to follow stay the same too.

Avoiding scams really is as simple as being as cautious as you can be.

If something seems too urgent or too good to be true, don’t be afraid to take a step back and give it a good think.

Ask your friends and family for advice. Do research online.

Money can disappear in the blink of an eye, and you’ll struggle to get it back. And the same is true for info, which can be used to defraud you or hoodwink those close to you.

So be extremely careful before you ever hand anything over online.

If something seems off, it probably is.

Picture Credit: Sean Keach

SCAM 5 – FRIEND IN NEED

There are lots of variations of this con, but it’s commonly known as the “friend in need” – or lately, the “hi mum, it’s me” scam.

This is when a crook pretends to be someone you know to hoodwink you.

It works because so often we expect scams to come from people we don’t know – or criminals posing as businesses.

“It’s not just strangers,” said Patricia Egger, of Proton.

“Criminals often pretend to be friends, colleagues or family by hacking accounts or stealing personal details.

“If you get an urgent request from someone you know that feels unusual, check with them through another channel before doing anything.”

These crooks might message you from a strange WhatsApp account, and say, “Hi mum, it’s me your daughter, I’m texting from a friend’s phone.”

And they’ll say that they’re in trouble and need money fast.

They might give the excuse that they’re in legal trouble, need cash for a taxi home, or have some other urgent money worry.

Many parents or pals will dismiss these texts out of hand.

But it only takes a little absent-mindedness and some luck on the part of the crook and you can easily fall for the con.

It’s increasingly common in the UK because so many Brits fall for it.

Worse still, some crooks will actually text you from your own family member’s phone number.

“Accounts can be taken over, and regularly are, by bad actors,” said Erich Kron, of KnowBe4.

“It can email, social media, or any number of other mediums, and attackers know that communications from known associates carry a lot of inherent trust.

“They can even hijack previous conversations, making it look even more legitimate.”

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Staying Safe

With this scam, your best defence is communication.

Be cautious whenever anyone asks you for money urgently – even a family member.

If they do, reach out to them by some other method, like calling them on the phone, to verify that it’s actually them asking for money.

Another good trick is to create a safe word or phrase that your family uses to verify that they’re really asking for cash.

“It’s important to establish an understanding between peers and family,” said Huntress’s Michael Tigges.

“Consider establishing ‘safe words’ or phrases that can be utilised when calling family members or peers from an untrusted number to confirm identity.

“And encourage family members, especially the elderly, to be highly sceptical of phone calls from untrusted numbers.”

Your safe word could be anything – even a silly phrase like “purple banana”.

It just needs to be something that you and your loved ones can remember, but that a criminal could never guess.

Don’t save it anywhere on your phone. Keep it as secret as possible.

It could mean the difference between avoiding a scam or losing thousands to a criminal – and then never getting it back.

Retirement is an exciting chapter in life, but it requires years of careful planning. Even seemingly small mistakes or misunderstandings can throw a wrench in your plans, potentially costing you thousands of dollars.

If you’re nearing retirement age, there’s one particularly dangerous mistake that’s easy to overlook: having an inappropriate asset allocation.

Image source: Getty Images.

What is asset allocation in retirement?

Your retirement portfolio is likely made up of many different investments, and most people own a mix of stocks and bonds. How those investments are divided up within your portfolio is your asset allocation.

As you age, it’s important to adjust your asset allocation so that you have the appropriate balance of risk and reward.

When you’re younger and still have decades left of your career, you can afford to take on more risk with a higher proportion of stocks versus bonds. Stocks are more volatile in the short term, but as long as you have a few years to allow your investments to recover, they’ll generally go on to earn far higher returns than bonds.

Once you start nearing retirement, though, your portfolio should lean more heavily toward the conservative side. While bonds often earn lower returns than stocks, they’re also less affected by stock market volatility. If you’re heavily invested in stocks and the market takes a sudden turn for the worse, your retirement fund could plummet right as you’re ready to start withdrawing that money.

Why it’s still wise to invest some money in stocks

If you’re worried about a stock market crash or recession, it can be tempting to throw all of your money into bonds and avoid investing in stocks altogether. While that approach sounds safer on the surface, it can also be costly.

Investing at least a portion of your portfolio in stocks can help you earn significantly more than if you were to invest solely in bonds.

For example, say that by investing conservatively in investments like bonds, you could earn an average rate of return of 5% per year. On the other hand, say that by investing in a mix of stocks and bonds, you could earn average returns of 8% per year — slightly below the stock market’s historic average of 10% per year.

If you’re investing $100 per month, here’s approximately what you could accumulate in both scenarios:

Data source: Author’s calculations via investor.gov.

Investing too heavily in stocks can put your retirement fund at greater risk during a bear market or recession, but investing too heavily in bonds can seriously limit your earning potential.

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to what the ideal asset allocation should look like. However, a common guideline is to subtract your age from 110, and the result is the percentage of your portfolio to allocate to stocks. So if you’re 65 years old, you might allocate 45% of your retirement fund to stocks and the remaining 55% to bonds.

Again, this is only a guideline, not a rule. If you’re more risk-averse and comfortable with potentially lower average returns, you might push your portfolio more toward the conservative side. Or if you have other sources of income and can afford to take on more risk with your retirement investments, you might lean slightly more toward stocks to increase your long-term earning potential.

Your asset allocation will depend somewhat on your personal preference, but it’s still important to be intentional about it. By finding the right balance of stocks and bonds, you can better protect your financial future.

Virgin has announced a six-month contract for a ‘Head of Yes’ to try out some of the company’s best luxury travel and experiences

You could earn £50,000 to travel first class, rest your head in boutique hotels or cruise the seas aboard a luxury liner.

Virgin has launched a six-month contract for a ‘Head of Yes’ to test some of the company’s finest luxury travel and experiences available.

The role offers £50,000 and all the successful candidate will need to do is document their journeys on social media. It follows research of 2,000 adults which discovered that attending live music events, enjoying spa days and booking last-minute getaways are amongst the experiences Brits wish to embrace more often this year, by saying yes.

The survey showed nine per cent are hesitant to say yes to various activities blaming anxiety about change, a fear of the unknown or financial concerns as main reasons not to.

One in five also say no to opportunities due to being trapped in routine – with millennials being the worst offenders. Nevertheless, eight in ten are planning to make a conscious effort to become more daring and venture beyond their comfort zones next year.

They’re hoping to attempt activities such as skydiving, riding roller coasters, or sampling different cuisines.

Andrea Burchett, chief loyalty officer at Virgin, which commissioned the survey, said: “It’s positive to see people wanting to say ‘yes’ more – now they just need to do it.

“Actions speak louder than words, so if you’re thinking about doing something that might jolt you out of a comfort zone, there’s no better time for it.”

Brits reckon that by embracing more opportunities – whether that’s weekend getaways or simply accepting help from others – will bring them greater happiness and boost their mental and emotional wellbeing.

Meanwhile, others anticipate it would leave them feeling more satisfied with their lives, with seven in ten adding that some of their finest memories came from embracing new experiences.

Andrea added: “The Head of Yes role exists to remind the world what happens when you stop overthinking and start living.”

“Life doesn’t get bigger by playing it safe,” Andrea adds. “This [job] is for the person who says yes to karaoke, to skydives, to showing up even when it’s easier not to.

“Saying yes is the fastest route out of routine. If your idea of a good day is saying yes to something that makes your friends text, ‘Wait, what?!’, then you’re exactly the kind of mischief we want to fund.”

Applications to become the ‘Head of Yes’ are open from 29 September until 10 November.

Hopefuls simply need to share a TikTok video detailing a moment when they embraced an unforgettable adventure, using the hashtag #headofyes to enter.

RICHARD BRANSON’S TOP TIPS FOR SAYING YES

Say yes first

Work out the details later. Most of life’s great adventures start with a leap into the unknown. Don’t overthink it – opportunities rarely come fully formed.

Turn fear into fuel

The things that scare you often turn out to be the most rewarding. If it makes your stomach flip, it’s probably worth doing.

Embrace spontaneity

Some of my best experiences came from last-minute decisions. Say yes to that trip, concert or crazy idea. You’ll rarely regret it.

Make “why not?” your default

Instead of talking yourself out of things, ask yourself why not. More often than not, the reasons not to do something are smaller than you think.

Seek out adventure in the everyday

Saying yes doesn’t always mean skydiving. It can mean trying a new food, taking a different route or speaking to someone new.

Surround yourself with “yes” people

Spend time with people who lift you up and encourage you to try new things – you’ll find yourself saying yes more naturally.

Value experiences over perfection

Don’t wait for the “perfect time.” If you’re always waiting, you’ll miss the moment. Jump in and learn along the way.

Challenge routine

If you’re stuck doing the same things day in, day out, deliberately say yes to something that disrupts your usual pattern. That’s where growth happens.

Let curiosity lead you

Curiosity is the best compass. If something excites you or sparks a question, say yes to exploring it further.

Remember – life is short

No one looks back wishing they’d said no more often. Say yes, collect memories and live boldly

FORMER PM MARGARET THATCHER famously got by on just four hours’ kip, while wartime leader Winston Churchill hit the hay for just a few hours a night.

A study suggests the average person gets just six hours and 50 minutes sleep – and others are getting less than three hours.

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But a good night’s shut-eye doesn’t start with jumping into bed at a reasonable time, it begins the moment you open your eyes in the morning.

Confused? Here, physiologist and sleep expert Dr Nerina Ramlakhan, tells Ella Walker how she gets quality sleep.

4AM – Go back to sleep: Dr Nerina says: “There are two main hormones that govern our kip – the sleep hormone melatonin and cortisol, which is produced when we’re stressed and drives us to get things done.

“Cortisol levels start to increase from around 4am, so many people find they can go into a shallower phase of sleep.

“I wake around then but don’t look at the time. I place weighted yoga eye pillows over my eyes and get another phase of sleep.”

7AM – Wake up the right way: The circadian rhythm – the body’s internal 24-hour biological clock that determines your sleep-wake cycle – is important to Dr Nerina.

She says: “I like to wake up naturally, I don’t like the jangling of an alarm.

“I get some natural daylight, ideally not through glass, even just a few seconds. It helps adjust my circadian rhythms.”

8AM – Breakfast of proteins, fats and carbs: It might be the first meal of the day, but Dr Nerina is already prepping for her sleep.

Something sugary like a croissant can overstimulate the nervous system and ruin sleep later.

So Dr Nerina has full-fat Greek yoghurt with a mixture of chia and flax seeds soaked overnight.

Dr Nerina says: “Protein and fat provides sustained energy, fullness and supports stable blood sugar levels.

“It sets the body on the right metabolic trajectory, increasing the likelihood of optimal melatonin production later.”

9AM – Post-breakfast coffee: Even sleep experts are not afraid of caffeine but they are careful with it.

“I have caffeine either with food or after breakfast,” says Dr Nerina.

“I don’t tend to have more than one caffeinated drink a day, and that’s before midday.

“The half-life of caffeine is about five hours, so if you have a cup of coffee at 3pm, you’ll have half the amount in your blood supply around 8pm.

“It might not make you feel lively, but could impact the quality of sleep.”

11 AM – Mid-morning exercise: Working out too late can also disrupt sleep so Dr Nerina does hers early.

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She says: “I do strength training or go to the river and swim.

“Exercise is really important, otherwise I’m more stressed with too much mental energy.

“I don’t like exercising in the evening.

“It can overstimulate the nervous system and produce hormones like adrenaline and cortisol, which will disrupt sleep.”

1PM – Lunch of eggs and gut-friendly foods: Increasing research is showing the impact of microbiome health on sleep.

Dr Nerina says: “If your gut is healthy, you sleep better.

“Lunch for me is always something that won’t spike blood sugar levels like heavy carbohydrates (which turn into sugar) would. I like an omelette with salad and sauerkraut.”

5PM – Dinner: A healthy meal and fasting window can support better quality sleep and help manage your circadian rhythm.

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Dr Nerina says: “I’ll eat some fish, vegetables and rice. I do like something sweet, so it might be some dark chocolate.

“A few days a week, I try intermittent fasting, having my last meal at 5pm. Other times, I eat no later than 7pm.”

8PM – Turn down the lights: Bright light tells your body to wake up, even in the evening, so turn the main lights off.

Dr Nerina says: “I might watch TV and turn the lamps on instead.

“I go to bed around 9pm, my device is switched off, charging outside my room, and I keep the room as cool as possible.

“I take a magnesium supplement now too, which helps relax the nervous system and muscles.”

10PM – If drifting off is tricky: It should take 15 minutes to fall asleep.

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“If you have any trouble, Dr Nerina says: “I use some box breathing to help me fall asleep.

“If I’m really stressed, I do ten minutes of journaling before I turn the lights out.

“Stress journaling has been shown to reduce the time it takes to fall asleep.”

DRIVERS have been urged to make changes to their car’s air con that will save them thousands of pounds.

Experts have warned that not using your motor’s air con this winter could see drivers dealing with costly repairs or even fines of up to £1,000.

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Air conditioning isn’t just for cooling off in those hot summer months.

Many drivers may think switching off their air con in the winter will help save money – but the opposite is true.

It also works as a dehumidifier, preventing mould, odours, and health risks but only if it is used regularly.

If you don’t use it for a period of time it can lead to moisture build up, bacteria thriving and repairs can become costly.

And a misted windscreen can prove more than just a nuisance – it could land you with a £1,000 fine and three points on your license.

Using your air con is the quickest way to clear it and it will also regulate your heating and cooling to keep the motor’s cabin comfortable.

Car maintenance experts at Fixter have shared six expert tips on how to properly use your air con system during the colder months as well as maintenance tips.

Run your AC regularly

Their first tip is to run your air con regularly, even on cooler settings, a small habit that can save you from those costly long-term repairs.

Experts at Fixter recommend to use your air-con for 10 to 15 minutes once a week and occasionally on a colder setting.

This will keep seals lubricated, prevents mould growth and stops the compressor from seizing.

Demist your windscreen

They also advise that you demist your windscreen fast to stay legal and avoid that hefty £1,000 fine.

They say that the quickest and safest way to clear fog or frost is by combining warm air with your air con.

This will reduce humidity while the heat will speed up defogging.

You should direct airflow at the glass and avoid using your recirculation mode.

Don’t skip your winter service

Even if you’re not blasting cold air, your air con is still working hard behind the scenes, experts at Fixter say.

A regular servicing will keep the air con system efficient and will prevent bacteria building up.

It will also reduce the risk of breakdowns when you need it most, they added.

Check your cabin filter and airflow

If your filters are clogged, your air con is going to have to do more work to demist your windscreen.

Fixter says a clogged pollen or cabin filter will restrict airflow, make your demisting slower and get your air con working harder.

And if your vents feel weak, it could also men your refrigerant is low – both are quick fixes if caught early but are expensive if ignored.

Don’t ignore unpleasant smells

If there are some unpleasant smells in your cabin, it may be a sign of a bigger problem.

Musty odours when you turn on your air con are usually caused by mould or bacteria, Fixter says.

This will affect cabin air quality as well as your health and can be fixed with a clean or filter replacement.

Clear your vents before driving

Fixter says that clearing your vents before driving is also crucial.

Snow or ice blocking your cars external vents can stop your air con from circulating air properly, forcing the fan to overwork.

You should always brush them clear before setting off.

More on motors

Whether it’s a weird noise or a check engine light, every driver knows the dreaded feeling of another costly trip to the mechanic.

Thankfully, a new middle aisle buy from Lidl can help to save you money by ensuring one part of your car is always in perfect shape.

What should be in your winter car kit?

By Jacob Jaffa, Motors Reporter

Here’s what should be included in your winter car kit, according to the RAC:

1. Ice scraper
2. Torch
3. Paper maps
4. Phone charger
5. Warm clothes/blankets
6. High-vis clothing
7. Jump cables
8. Jerry can
9. Warning triangles
10. Food and drink
11. A shovel
12. Sunglasses

A major car brand recently recalled another 10,000 motors in the UK over a serious safety flaw.

Another brand recalled five models in UK over a defect that increases risk of crash.

And a huge UK car dealership has announced its sudden closure.

Plus a small parking mistake that could land drivers a hefty fine of up to £1,000.

Penny Moyses and her family, who are from Hertfordshire, had hoped to see the beautiful sights of Croatia but a last-minute snag dashed the group’s travel plans

A mum had to leave her five-year-old son at home during the start of their holiday due to a basic admin error.

Penny Moyses, 37, has today warned fellow parents to always ensure their children’s passports are valid after she discovered her eldest son’s document expired. Penny only realised this was the case just days before they were due to depart from Stansted airport, dashing her family’s hopes to attend a wedding in Croatia and spend time enjoying the country’s beautiful sights.

Panicked, the mother of two rushed to secure an emergency one – but was stunned to find out children’s passports need to be applied for at least one week in advance. So, the tragic admin error meant Penny had to leave husband James and their five-year-old son at home, while she flew to Croatia with their youngest child.

“Fear totally went through me – I felt sick to my stomach. I just had a quick peek just to double-check I had the exact right passports and just happened to notice that my eldest son’s passport expired,” Penny said today.

“I thought ‘It’s fine we can get an emergency passport, you can get those in a day” Turns out that for kids you have to wait a week as there’s a lot of safeguarding regulations, which I totally respect.”

READ MORE: ‘Porta Potty party model’ lifts lid on ordeal after she’s found in road with broken spineREAD MORE: EU citizens need new document to come to Britain from this week

Despite missing their flight and a few days in the sun, James eventually managed to secure their eldest’s emergency passport. The pair met the group at the port and, with their outfits in tow, quickly changed on the boat transfer before stepping off in their suits – much to Penny’s relief.

Penny, who lives in Hertfordshire, said: “My eldest ended up missing the first two days of the holiday. Luckily we managed to intercept the passport at our local sorting office and they arrived just in time for the wedding, literally the boat transferred them to the wedding.”

The traumatic event has encouraged Penny to take charge of what she refers to as the “silent load” of life admin that swirls around her head on a daily basis. One new trick in particular is helping her brain take a break from constant worries about planning.

The mum is using an app called Fyio, a digital filing cabinet that helps users keep track of their most important personal documents. She said: “The silent load is often what can fall on a woman for various reasons but typically the person that is running the household.

“It’s something that I certainly can’t switch off. By using Fyio I can now keep track of my important documents; if I had the passport expiry dates in there, I would’ve completely avoided the Croatia disaster and saved myself hundreds.

“My son wouldn’t have missed two days of our holiday. For me, it’s those family moments that paperwork can really impact. I totally underestimated what it was like going back to school with kids.

Penny first came across Fyio when it launched at her 2022 ‘Clean & Tidy Home Show’. Since then, her event has evolved into ‘Home, Life & You LIVE’, which returns to Excel London in October 2025.

She is now an avid user of the app, which allows for everything from passport renewal reminders to managing prescriptions, uploading files in seconds and sharing documents safely with others, with them set to expire after a chosen time.

The platform uses military-grade security and even Fyio’s own team cannot access the data. She said: “Now, I have all the important documents in my online filing drawers, such as school uniform regulations ” and, of course, passport info.

“The app helps with the silent load I used to feel and helps me take ownership of my life admin in a simple way. Finding ways to save time ” especially as a parent ” means I can be present with my family instead of worrying if I’ve forgotten something. This app makes my life easier and takes some of the pressure off my shoulders ” something every mum could do with.”

IF you’ve managed to end this summer with a lush green lawn, and no unexplained bald patches or a depressing brown sheen – then well done you.

The majority of people I’ve spoken to have been left with grass that’s definitely looking a bit under the weather (literally).

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But fear not.

One of Britain’s biggest shorts-wearing lawn lovers has got some golden rules for Sun Gardening to whip that outside space back into shape.

Jonny Hinks – AKA @gardenwithjonny on social media – describes himself as a self-taught gardener, firefighter and full time garden obsessive from Warwickshire.

And with nearly two million followers on instagram alone – it’s not just his comedy videos that have caught the attention of garden lovers everywhere.

His lawn is spectacularly well maintained – and even in the midst of one of the hottest summers on record, it still managed to look a lot better than most.

“Now is the perfect time for Autumn lawn care”, he told Sun Gardening.

“It’s nice and moist, the soil is warm from the summer. So in terms of germination for grass seed, it’s just the perfect conditions.

“And it’s also a good time because the grass is still growing and if you get it all sorted now –  the roots will be established enough to take the Winter cold that’s on its way.

“Everyone’s lawns have been suffering and turning brown from all the sun – and although it will come back if it hasn’t already, there’s a few things you can do now to help it along.”

FEEDING

“Be careful you buy the right feed. What you need now is high potassium Autumn feed, which helps the grass improve its root strength.

And low nitrogen – as you don’t want too much leaf before Winter as there’s a risk if it’s too leafy it will be prone to disease.

SCARIFY

“This is like exfoliating your face. Basically you just need to take off all the moss and thatch, which is a layer of dead grass and roots – and too much of it prevents water and nutrients from reaching the grass.

It lets the lawn breathe, which is so important. I use a battery-powered scarifier, but there are manual ones, or you can use a rake.

Go diagonally in one direction and then again in the other direction. It’s a great work out

AERATE

“This is when you create air pockets within the lawn which reduces compaction, and like scarifying, allows water and nutrients to penetrate the earth.

“This makes for better root systems. I don’t like using a fork or aerating shoes for this – that just spreads the soil apart.

“Instead I have a tool a bit like a fork, but with hollow tines,  that takes plugs out the lawn.”

TOPSOIL AND SEED

“As soon as I’ve finished all these jobs – I scatter a covering of grass seed over the area – and then cover with a thin layer of topsoil.

“I have been known in the past to do a mix of both together, but I’ve found this way works well. And then water, of course.”

Also in Veronica’s Column this week…

Top tips, Gardening news, competition and Plant of the Week

FOR more gardening content, tips, news and competitions, follow me @biros_and_bloom

PLANT OF THE WEEK! Nemesia Melody Morello Ice – still bringing colour to your garden now – this lovely Nemesia is totally hardy, with masses of dark green foliage, flowers from March to October, perfect for filling baskets, containers, beds and borders and has a sweet scent. Grow in moist well drained soil in sun or partial shade.

JOB OF THE WEEK! Prune climbing and rambling roses, remove any leaves covering pumpkins to get them ripe for halloween, if you’ve got rotten apples on the tree, remove them to prevent disease.

TOP TIP! It can be confusing as to which bulbs should be planted when – so here’s a few tips. This month – September – you can go for early spring-flowering bulbs like daffodils, hyacinths and crocus.
Especially daffodils – as it will help with their root establishment.
You can also get hardy summer flowering bulbs like Alliums and Lillies in now as well. None of the above mind the soil still being warm.
But wait until November for Tulips – as they much prefer the colder soil to get them going. Always plant bulbs in groups to get a better display. And they like the warmth and sun – so keep that in mind. Try and plant them three times the depth of the bulbs – this is when a sturdy bulb planter comes in handy.

TOP TIP! If you’ve noticed dead patches, loose turf and even holes appearing in your lawns, you could be under attack from Leatherjackets – the destructive larvae of crane flies, AKA daddy long legs.
They feed on grassroots and seedlings, and can also attract birds, badgers and foxes that dig up turf in search of a snack, adding to the damage. But there is help at hand.
Nowadays you can basically water in a beneficial nematode – called Steinernema feltiae – which are basically microscopic worms that naturally target and kill leatherjackets. They enter the grubs body and then release bacteria that kill the pest from within. Sounds grim, but it works. There aren’t many brands on the market – I’ve used Nemasys, which was great – but you can also find them from Dragonfli and Dobies online.

TOP TIP! Clean out old pots to make sure they don’t have old compost/bits of dead plants – that can hide pests and diseases over winter and check online to see if you’ve got local recycling – some garden centres take them. 

NEWS! Great Comp Garden’s Bulbs N Things Autumn fair has doubled in size this year. Taking place at the seven-acre Kent garden, it will have a huge range of unusual bulbs, including dwarf iris, crocus, anemone, hyacinth, erythronium, fritillary, hermodactylus, leucojum, muscari, puschkinia, scilla and more. There will also be gardenware, handmade gifts, rare and unusual plants and curated sellers at the two day event October 11 and 12. 

WIN!! Two lucky winners will receive a Westland Autumn Lawncare bundle worth £100 each – including feed, seed, a scarifying rake and aerator. To enter visit www.thesun.co.uk/WestlandAutumn or write to Sun Westland Autumn Lawncare competition, PO Box 3190, Colchester, Essex, CO2 8GP. Include your name, age, email or phone. UK residents 18+ only. Entries close 11.59pm. September 27, 2025. T&Cs apply

While northern Spain may not attract as many tourists as it’s resort-packed neighbours in the south, one city is attracting a whole new set of visitors looking to try some of the best food the country has to offer

For many people, the best bit about going abroad is eating and drinking your way through a new place, trying all the local dishes and bringing home your favourite recipes.

While millions of foodies may head to tourist hot spots of Rome, Barcelona or Paris to eat their weight in pasta, tapas or pastries, one hidden gem has actually gained the title of Europe’s culinary paradise.

Nestled on the coast of Northern Spain, and just a few miles from the French border, is the small port and fishing city of San Sebastian. Lining the turquoise ocean of the Bay of Biscay, it made its living from catching fish, and is now making its fortune cooking it.

The Basque city has the highest proportion of Michelin Star restaurants of anywhere else in the world. Despite a population of just 180,000, the city is home to 12 Michelin-starred restaurants, including three highly coveted three-star restaurants and three two-star restaurants.

While getting a table at the prestigious Arzak, Akelare, and Martin Berasategui may be easier said than done – and out of many of our budgets – the foodie culture is something that has seeped down to the streets.

The city’s picturesque Iberian streets are lined with pintxos bars (pronounced pEEn-chos), delightful little watering holes filled with locals that serve you bite-sized pieces of bread served with local meats, cheeses, fish and anything else the chef fancies, perfect when paired with a cold beer or glass of sangria.

An evening can easily be spent hopping from bar to bar, tucking into the delicious bites, with the odd slice of tortilla or other tapas classics, before finishing it off with a famed slice of Basque cheesecake.

But for those wanting something much more filling, the region is home to what has been described as the “best steak in the world”.

On a trip to the city, Isaac Rodgers from the Steak Society went on a hunt around the city to try to find the best Txuleton steak around.

The Txuleton steak is a regional delicacy that is served from much older cows than you’d normally find – usually about 18 years old – from the specific Rubio Gallegia breed.

Having eaten so much steak, he gained 4.5 pounds on his trip, Isaac concluded his favourite came from Gandarias Jatetxea.

He wrote: “This wasn’t my first visit to Gandarias. I discovered Gandarias after searching for Steakhouses back in 2014 and was thrilled by a very reasonably priced and delicious melt-in-the-mouth steak. I’ve been wanting to go back ever since.

“We ordered Octopus and a 1.1kg ‘Old aged T-Bone steak’, a delicious new take on surf and turf, I suppose.

“The steak was unexpectedly tender as well as being quite beefy (but not as much as expected). The steak closest to the bone was also the most tasty. Given the cut of steak and the breed of cow, there were copious amounts of fat. Combining some of the chunks of fat with the beef created an insanely pleasurable taste.”

Flights from the UK to San Sebastian are relatively expensive and infrequent, but budget flights from the UK to nearby Bilbao can cost as little as £21, with similar costing flights available to Biarritz in France, requiring just a short hop over the border.

HAVING struggled to lose weight for years, it was a simple diet change that finally helped Emma Dennison to shed the pounds.

But with her huge weight loss came a big surprise – hiding under her loose skin.

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Emma had tried to lose weight for years without success.

And after a catastrophic knee injury left her unable to exercise, she decided it was time to give up.

The 42-year-old weighed more than 20 stone, and as her size grew, her self-esteem shrank.

“I wasn’t always big. I was a bit heavier in school, but I stayed active through university,” she said.

“Then in 2006, I completely blew out my knee. I was in a full cast for eight months. That’s when the weight started creeping on.

“It wasn’t that I was eating junk all day – I just ate too much. And food became my comfort when life felt overwhelming.

“I didn’t recognise myself in the mirror. I’d stopped shopping for clothes I liked. I always had to go to the ‘fat shop,’ and even then, I hated everything. I stopped being in photos. I’d take a thousand of my kids and husband, but I’d avoid the camera.”

Emma is a full-time sheep farmer and mum to Henry, now ten, and Thomas, 8.

Her life never slowed down and she struggled with emotional eating and portion control.

When Emma and her husband Mervyn, from Tipperary, Ireland, began trying for a third baby, she didn’t suspect her weight might be a factor.

She said: “All my hormone levels were fine, but we tried for two years and nothing happened. Eventually, I just said, ‘That’s it. We’ve got two beautiful boys. It’s not meant to be.’”

With the baby dream put to rest, Emma decided it was finally time to focus on her health and gave the 1:1 Diet by Cambridge Weight Plan a go, a programme that mixes meal replacements and normal food with consultant support.

Starting the plan in September 2021, Emma steadily lost weight.

She said: “By May, I was down nearly six stone. Then the scales stopped moving. I was confused. Until that point, I had been consistently losing weight.”

THEN CAME A SURPRISE…

“One night, just for the craic, I took a pregnancy test. I was sure it would be negative… but it wasn’t,” she recalled.

“I was sitting on the toilet at half eleven at night, staring at it thinking, ‘Oh my God. I’m pregnant.’ I didn’t want to wake Mervyn so I lay awake half the night thinking about how I would tell him.”

When she saw the doctor the next day, the news got even more shocking.

“He said, ‘Emma, you’re not just pregnant – you’re already 15 weeks along.’ The weight loss had hidden my bump under loose skin”, she says. Her third pregnancy, Emma says, was worlds apart from her previous two.

“I had no Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction. I was active right up to the end. Two days before my C-section, I was shearing sheep. I honestly believe losing weight made the difference. I felt strong and capable for the first time in years.”

After giving birth to her miracle baby Alistair two years ago, Emma focused on expressing milk, a goal she hadn’t achieved with her older sons.

“I was constantly hungry while expressing. A lot of the weight went back on, but I didn’t panic. I knew I had a plan,” she said.

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She returned to the 1:1 Diet in May 2023, and by December had lost the additional weight, reaching a total loss of eight stone.

Emma now fluctuates comfortably between a size 12 and 14.

She said: “Size 10 doesn’t suit me. I’m curvy and that’s okay. I’m in my 40s now, not my 20s. I want to be healthy, strong, and confident.”

One of the biggest changes came when she began to love fashion again.

She said: “I remember walking into a shop and picking up a top, knowing it would fit. I sat in the car afterwards and cried. That was a freedom I hadn’t felt in years.”

Since then, Emma has become a 1:1 consultant herself, training up while on maternity leave so she can help others see a similar transformation.

And her proudest moment came when she completed Couch to 5k – something her 14-year-old self never imagined.

She said: “I was forced to run a 1,500m race in school. I came dead last – and I mean a long way last. People laughed. When I hit 5k, I thought, ‘Up yours’ to every single one of them.

“Losing weight gave me back my fertility, my health, my confidence and my identity. And I no longer hide from the camera.” 

Paying for a seat on a plane is an added expense that many travellers prefer to avoid, but one expert has shared how to travel in comfort without spending any money.

After paying for your flight and any checked luggage, many of us would prefer to not fork out even more for a seat. But waiting to be assigned a random seat can often mean you end up squished in between strangers, making for a rather uncomfortable journey, especially if you’ve got a long way to go.

While some airlines like British Airways will let you choose a seat if you pay for luggage, there’s plenty of packing tips and tricks out there which means many travellers stick to hand luggage. With recent reports that travellers who sit in an unassigned seat in the hopes it might be free could face a hefty fine for what’s being dubbed seat squatting, there’s one more secure way of grabbing a good seat.

Chelsea Dickenson is known for sharing budget travel advice on her blog Holiday Expert, and in a recent article for Metro, she revealed the easy way to get the best seat on the plane without having to spare a single penny.

However, she warned that this isn’t for those who get easy stressed when travelling, as it requires leaving things quite last minute.

Referring to her tactic as “check-in chicken”, Chelsea explained that the trick to getting the best seat on the plane is done by delaying online check-in until the last possible moment.

Chelsea said: “After years of flying on a budget, I’ve learned a thing or two about how they operate. And more often than not, my method lands me a seat with extra legroom without paying a penny”, reports the Express.

However, this strategy won’t be suitable for those travelling in groups, particularly families who wish to be seated together.

If you want to sit together but don’t want to fork out extra for seats, Money Saving Expert instead recommends groups of travellers check-in as soon as you’re able to.

In a post on their website, they explained all major airlines except Ryanair will attempt to seat groups on the same booking together, provided there are seats available next to each other that other passengers haven’t already reserved.

But if you are travelling alone, a game of check-in chicken could work in your favour, particularly if you end up at the front of the aircraft with extra leg room, or in a window seat.

However, Chelsea cautioned that travellers “need a cool head, a charged phone and very firm grasp on when online check-in closes” to do this successfully, and check-in times can differ depending on the airline.

The savvy traveller also pointed out that she primarily employs this tactic, which she refers to as one of her “favourite budget travel joys”, when flying with budget carriers such as Ryanair or Wizz Air, noting that airlines like easyJet and British Airways don’t typically allocate the less desirable seats initially.

Once check-in has opened, which is typically 24 hours before your flight departs, Chelsea said she keeps monitoring the seat map throughout the day, and proceeds with the check-in when she’s satisfied with the remaining seat options.

However, the secret to doing this is to not actually leave it to the very last minute, which could see you having to pay a fee at the airport, and likely more than you would have if you’d simply paid for a seat.

Chelsea clarified that: “I often find that by six hours to go there’s only ‘good’ seats left – ones with extra legroom, seats on the front rows or simply non-middle aisle seats,” and she recommended setting alarms to make sure you don’t forget.

Ryanair and EasyJet passengers have long been warned about the strict hand luggage rules, but a shoe expert has shared a ‘simple yet effective’ shoe rule to help you stay within the limit

Budget carriers such as Ryanair and easyJet might lure travellers with their low-cost tickets, but their stringent cabin bag policies can quickly bump up the overall price. Holidaymakers are bound by tight restrictions on both the weight and dimensions of their hand luggage if they want to sidestep extra fees for additional carry-ons or checked baggage.

However, a savvy shoe guru has come forward with a “simple yet effective shoe rule” that could help jet-setters keep within the free luggage limits. It’s all about planning your holiday agenda well in advance, which enables you to be discerning about what earns a spot in your suitcase and what gets left at home.

Gabriel Miller from Gatsby Shoes points out that shoes are often the biggest culprits when it comes to hogging space and piling on the pounds in your luggage.

Gabriel’s top tip for travellers is to curb the number of shoes they pack. “Packing efficiently not only eases the stress of travel but also helps you navigate different situations with ease, safe in the knowledge that you have a shoe for every occasion,” he said.

He champions a pared-down packing strategy: stick to a maximum of three pairs of shoes for any trip, which not only frees up space but also encourages thoughtful packing, reports the Express.

Gabriel reassures that a carefully curated trio of footwear can meet the demands of various outings, from exploring urban landscapes during the day to enjoying an elegant evening meal.

“It’s about bringing what you need, not what you might use,” he said.

Gabriel has broken down the must-have shoes for holidaymakers into three essential categories, advising travellers to pack just one pair from each to cover all bases on their trip.

For the first category, Gabriel suggests a pair of comfy walking shoes or trainers that are versatile enough for travel days. “Your primary pair of shoes should be comfortable for walking, durable enough for adventure activities, and stylish enough not to detract from your daily outfits,” Gabriel explained.

He advises sticking to neutral colours that can easily match with a variety of outfits.

Moving on to the second category, Gabriel recommends a smarter pair of shoes for any posh dinners or formal events you might attend while away. “Even on vacation, a dressier shoe option is crucial for evenings out or more formal events,” Gabriel noted.

For men, he suggests versatile loafers, while women might opt for chic heeled sandals that can elevate any look.

Lastly, for those jetting off to sunnier shores or beachside locales, Gabriel insists on including a pair of sandals or appropriate beachwear shoes. These types of footwear are usually light and take up little space in your suitcase.

“Ideal for relaxing days by the water or casual strolls, a good pair of sandals is indispensable,” Gabriel stated. He recommends choosing sandals that are easy to clean, quick to dry, and comfy enough for all-day wear.

The ‘game-changing’ hack is popular with travel fans because it helps prevent creases

A woman has revealed a “game-changing” packing trick that prevents wrinkles so you can look fabulous on holiday. The popular technique was showcased in a TikTok video shared by womenswear brand Sophie Cameron Davies.

Taking to social media, @sophiecamerondavies revealed why it’s worth investing a bit more time when packing your case to save hassle during your break. The caption read: “If your suitcase is full of floaty dresses, silk pieces or anything remotely crease-prone, try this.

“No more steaming out wrinkles for half your holiday. It’s simple, space-saving, and actually works.

“Save this one – your future self will thank you.” As shown in the clip, the trick requires holidaymakers to fold their garments, ensuring they stay flat within the suitcase.

Sophie explained: “Lay your clothes completely flat, don’t roll or overfold. Fill the full width of your suitcase right into the corners, and fold only once or twice max to avoid deep creases.

“Then just lay each piece on top of the other like a stack. It keeps everything smooth and compact, so simple but game-changing.” The clip has garnered more than 600,000 views, along with thousands of likes.

It also inspired commenters to share their preferred approach, and it appears many people swear by Sophie’s method. One enthusiast of the packing technique wrote: “I have packed like this for years and it’s honestly a game changer!

“Less folds = more space.” Another commenter shared their positive experience, writing: “I’ve been doing this more recently!

“So much better!” A third person revealed: “I always pack like this – never have to iron.”

Adding to the praise, someone mentioned: “I’ve always done this and left them on hangers too. So once I arrive, hang straight up.”

A social media user replied: “I do this too ….makes unpacking at hotel sooooo much easier.” Some people offered their own twist on the idea, like one who said: “I use the other side for clothes as it’s flat and the side you have put the clothes in I use for toiletries and shoes, swimwear etc .. it works no creases.”

Another viewer added: “I do this but I lay each piece flat hanging from the sides. Lay items on top then flip the sides inwards and secure it.”

However, not everyone was convinced by the packing hack. In response to a sceptic who said: “Then when you stand the case up everything will fall down,” someone defended the method but highlighted a different criticism, saying: “No, it doesn’t.

“I’ve packed like this – just a pain looking for things when arriving at destination.” Others expressed a preference for using packing cubes instead, reports the Express.

One such response read: “I swear by packing cubes, makes everything so much easier.” A fan agreed: “Same, family of 6, everyone has a set of their own colour cubes – makes life so much easier.”

The commenter replied: “Aren’t they just brilliant. I wouldn’t ever not use them now.”

However, someone else wrote: “They take up way more space though. I always lay clothes flat (or as flat as I can) and get more space out of the case.”

Road trips make for a great holiday, but if you don’t check these things before you leave, it can get expensive.

If you’re planning a summer road trip, it’s crucial to be clued up on the rules. Road trips can be a fantastic holiday and a summer staple, but they can also lead to financial woes if you inadvertently break any road laws, potentially leaving you thousands of pounds poorer.

Yell’s experts consulted Mark Hayes from HG Evans Garage Ltd, who boasts 44 years in garage services, about some of the lesser-known regulations that could trip up travellers this summer. The most common blunder people make is neglecting to check their tyre PSI.

Before heading out on any summer excursion, it’s essential to inspect your tyres, ensuring your tread depth exceeds the legal minimum of 1.6mm to dodge a hefty £10,000 fine.

Brit holidaymakers urged to understand 12 European road signs or face finesUK city is ‘best for relaxing walks’ with top attraction and impressive views

Additionally, verify that the rubber is in good nick and that your tyre pressure matches the correct PSI.

Don’t forget to check your brakes too, to avoid earning three points on your licence and a £2,500 penalty.

Ensure your brake fluid levels are up to scratch before hitting the road. If you suspect they might be faulty, get in touch with your local garage or service centre for help before setting off, reports the Express.

If you’re planning a full-blown road trip and towing a caravan or trailer, it’s vital to confirm your car has the appropriate towing capacity.

Knowing your route is equally important. Familiarise yourself with the journey and local roads, and keep a close watch on your clutch.

If your vehicle has clocked between 50,000 and 100,000 miles, it’s high time to have your clutch inspected to prevent any unexpected breakdowns.

This is particularly crucial if you frequently drive in hilly terrains.

Extreme heat can also wreak havoc on your car battery. If you’re aware that your battery is getting on in years, it would be wise to replace it ahead of any lengthy trips.

A replacement every three years is generally advised, and Hayes suggests avoiding numerous short drives during the summer, especially with multiple devices plugged in as this could deplete your battery at a much faster rate.

In hot weather, it’s recommended to check your car battery roughly once a week, particularly if it’s around three years old.

There’s nothing more stressful than travelling with young children, but a mum-of-two has shared a smart travel hack to keep all electronics charged more easily

Travelling with your children can be a joyful experience until their electronics run out of charge – but TikTok influencer Muddle Through Mummy shared her clever hack to keep her children’s belongings charged at all times while abroad, without worrying about bringing tons of adaptors.

After months of work, the only thing one wishes is to go on a holiday to a hot destination. As travelling with children can become difficult, this hack will make your travels less stressful. Different countries have different chargers, which means having multiple adapters is necessary to keep everything fully charged.

READ MORE: Brits are turning to clever travel hacks to maximise their holidays

Parents or not, we’ve all been in the situation when we’ve completely forgotten to pack one of the most important travel items after the passport.

The 10-second video shows the influencer saying goodbye to her tens of adapters and instead, taking an extension cube with USB and charging pods. “It makes travelling with electronics so simple,” she says.

Users flooded the comment section thanking her for the smart hack. One wrote: “Did this on our last trip and it was a lifesaver!!”

A second one commented: “Omg thank you,” with a third one saying: “We’ve got a few of these. Absolutely a life saver; we are a family of 7 and just needed a small suitcase just for wires and leads lol.”

READ MORE: Brits urged to ignore popular travel hack that’s making people miss flights

Known as Muddle Through Mummy, the mother of two has become popular on social media by sharing her parenting hacks, as well as her day-to-day life with her two sons and her husband.

Her relatable content and easy solutions to common parenting problems made her the go-to advisor. The social media influencer currently has 615.5K followers and over 66 million likes on her TikTok account.

Thanks to this travel hack, travelling has never been so much easier. It’s more convenient, less messy, and it can charge up to 10 devices at once, making it ideal for families or even solo travellers with multiple gadgets.

With this simple hack, family travel can be less chaotic and more convenient – just the way a holiday should be.

Sitting still on a plane for too long can cause cramping, bloating and in serious cases, deep vein thrombosis – so here are the best tips to keep comfortable and healthy on a long flight

Air travel can be a bit of a squeeze, particularly for those of us who aren’t flush enough to splash out on business class. Economy seating can feel rather tight, and enduring this for extended periods can not only cause discomfort but also potentially lead to serious health issues.

Problems such as cramping, bloating, and, in more severe cases, deep vein thrombosis can all result from remaining stationary on a plane for too long. So, if you’re gearing up for a lengthy flight in the near future, it’s crucial to know how to maintain your comfort and well-being.

The pros at Netflights have kindly shared their top tips for making that long-haul journey a tad more bearable.

One of their key recommendations is to rise from your seat and take a stroll every one to three hours. Make a deliberate effort to move about frequently during your flight.

Even something as simple as walking to the loo or standing up for a stretch can help keep you feeling sprightly and prevent stiffness, which is particularly vital on flights exceeding four hours, reports the Express.

Stretching is another crucial aspect, and you can do this right from your seat. Gently roll your neck from side to side, rotate your shoulders forwards and backwards, and carefully twist your spine.

Each of these movements should be repeated three to five times in each direction, but remember to be gentle. These stretches should provide relief, not strain your body.

The third method to tackle swelling and bloating is by raising your feet.

Sitting with your feet flat on the floor for extended periods can lead to discomfort, and travellers may suffer from swollen feet and ankles during long-haul flights.

To mitigate this whilst airborne, elevate your feet.

Resting your feet on your underseat carry-on helps counteract the natural downward flow of fluid in your body, thus reducing discomfort.

Flex your feet, rotate your ankles, or gently stretch your arms and back while seated to maintain blood circulation throughout your body.

Packing can be a nightmare when you’re trying to stick to cabin bag limits, but there is one change you can make that will ensure extra space in your bag – and it’s not the common rolling technique

One of the biggest hurdles when jetting off abroad is trying to cram all your essentials into the airline’s limited luggage allowance. If you’re aiming to travel light, sticking to cabin bag restrictions can be a real headache – but there’s one simple switch that could free up some much-needed space in your suitcase.

A common trick for conserving space is rolling your clothes; not only does it make use of the suitcase space, but it also helps avoid deep creases from forming when packed down. While many travellers have adapted to this technique, there’s an alternative method proven to be even more effective.

The KonMari folding technique, popularised by Marie Kondo, involves folding your garments into rectangles, rather than rolling them into cylinders, as we often see. This allows the clothes to stand upright next to each other in your suitcase, optimising even more space, reports the Express.

Here’s what to do:

• Take your item of clothing and fold one side to the middle, then the other side over it, creating a rectangle
• Then, fold it in half lengthways
• From here, fold it into thirds until it’s a small rectangle that can be slotted in alongside other items

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In addition to this nifty technique, it’s also smart to ditch hefty toiletries like shampoo and body wash, as most hotels supply these complimentary. If you’re heading overseas for an extended period, think about purchasing these upon arrival to spare suitcase space.

Alternatively, numerous hotels are happy to receive online deliveries prior to your stay, allowing you to order your bathroom necessities to arrive before you do. It’s a straightforward strategy to lighten your load and prevent overpacking items you may not even use.

Investing in jewellery and cable organisers is another savvy move. These will keep your belongings safe and untangled, saving you from rummaging through your suitcase in search of what you need.

Now you’ve mastered the rectangular folding technique, there’s another tip to be aware of when you’re at the airport.

Waiting for your suitcase to appear on the carousel at the airport can be a tense wait, but there’s an easy trick to ensure your suitcase is one of the first to be taken off the plane – and it won’t cost you an extra penny.

Hadleigh Diamond, Commercial Director at SCS Chauffeurs, revealed that a lot of the company’s clients use the same hack to get out of the airport as efficiently as possible. He explained: “Clients regularly tell us that the difference between a good travel day and a stressful one often starts with baggage reclaim.

“If you’re standing waiting for 30 minutes while the carousel clunks out someone else’s bags, your trip can feel so much longer. But the fragile sticker trick is a game-changer, and it often works.

“We’ve heard this tip from both airport ground staff and frequent flyers. You don’t need to lie or explain – just politely ask the check-in agent to add a ‘fragile’ sticker to your suitcase. It’s not guaranteed, but more often than not, your bag is among the first out. We’ve seen it work time and time again.”

The reason it works is that airport ground handlers will typically load ‘fragile’ items last into the aircraft’s hold to avoid them getting crushed, and then these get removed first on the other side to avoid sitting under heavy loads. Of course, it won’t save you hours of time, but those 20 minutes it might save you could just mean a bit of extra pool time (or getting to your hotel early enough to be one of the first at the buffet!).

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Surfshark VPN lets Brits stream their favourite TV shows while travelling on holiday

These days, many TV fans plan their lives around their favourite TV series, with the latest season premiere a major event in the diary. The biggest streamers like Netflix, Amazon’s Prime Video and Disney+ have already unveiled their stellar summer slates packed with new and returning shows.

June saw beloved series like Clarkson’s Farm, The Bear and Squid Game all back on screen, with more still to come including Dexter: Resurrection (Paramount+, July 11) and Alien: Earth (Disney+, August 13). But while everyone loves a summer holiday, jetting off to greener pastures often means having to wait to watch the latest episodes until one returns home.

This is because some content on streaming platforms like Netflix, Prime Video and Disney+ can only be accessed in the UK. But there is a way to access them from abroad with a VPN, which means Brits don’t have to miss out on the latest TV series when they jet off this summer.

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Please be aware streaming platforms may take the view that the use of a VPN to watch content from another territory may be a breach of its terms of service and may constitute copyright infringement. It is the user’s responsibility to ensure the use of a VPN is legal and The Mirror does not encourage any illegal use of a VPN.

How to watch your favourite TV series while travelling

Brits heading abroad this summer can use a VPN (Virtual Private Network) to unblock websites and services that usually only work in the UK. This allows users to access streaming platforms including Netflix, Prime Video and Disney+ from abroad as they would at home.

A VPN works by changing a device’s IP address – the unique identifier of a device connected to the internet – to any location around the world. There are many VPN providers on the market, with Surfshark a top choice that boasts the more than 3,200 Surfshark servers in 100 countries including the US, Australia, plus in Europe and Asia.

Get Surfshark VPN for £1.49 per month

£331.83

£40.23

Surfshark

Get Surfshark VPN here

Surfshark has slashed up to 88% off its VPN plans, offering 27 months’ access for £1.49 per month.

Surfshark is compatible with devices running Windows, iOS, Android, macOS, Linux, and FireTV. The brand is currently offering its services for the discounted rate of £1.49 per month for its 24-month Surfshark Starter plan, which now comes with three extra months at the reduced rate.

This option costs a total of £40.23 over the 27-month term, a whopping 88% saving compared to the usual £331.83. With this, users get a secure VPN that lets them watch their favourite shows from outside the UK, with advert and cookie pop-up blockers, a constantly changing IP address and the ability to use Surfshark on unlimited devices simultaneously.

There’s also 24/7 customer support on live chat or email and a 30-day money back guarantee. However, Surfshark members on the Starter plan won’t receive antivirus protection, a feature included in the £1.89 Surfshark One plan.

This provides a range of security features, with 27 months of VPN, antivirus, alert, search, and alternative ID. It offers the same benefits as Surfshark Starter but with the added benefit of detecting and removing viruses and malware in real time, as well as preventing advertising companies and bots tracking online activity and sending alerts if an email address appears in breached online databases.

Other VPN services include NordVPN, which rivals Surfshark with more than double the amount of servers. However, this comes at a cost as it’s also more expensive at £2.69 per month for the Basic plan.

ExpressVPN is another alternative and is said to be easier to use than other services but is also more expensive at £4.04 on its 24-month plan. The Daily Express compared Surfshark, NordVPN and ExpressVPN and found Surfshark to be ‘great value for money’.

It said: “Surfshark offers great value for money and that’s one of the big attractions. It’s actually owned by the people behind NordVPN, but this is their budget offering – not that the features are lacking.

“There are apps for a wide range of devices, but Surfshark doesn’t put a limit on the number of devices on the same contract, so you can sign-in across all your devices, making sure your whole family is protected.”

However, Chris also found a potential downside, adding: “Surfshark has fewer servers than some of its rivals and can sometimes be a little slower, but unless you’re moving huge amounts of data around, that’s unlikely to be a problem.”

Surfshark users have awarded the service an average 4.5-star rating on Trustpilot, with many impressed with its customer service. One said: “So nice to talk to a human when tech issues arise.”

Another said: “I’m really happy with how easy it is to use on the app and TV, and also for how reliable the service is.”

However, this mixed review said: “It has trouble connecting on my iPhone 12. Ok on iPad but seems to slow everything down.”

British tourists flying over to one of the popular Greek island of Santorini this summer have been issued a stark driving rule, as experts reveal a simple mistake could leave you with a ‘hefty fine’

UK holidaymakers heading to one of the most desirable Greek islands could get stung with a ‘hefty’ fine when hiring a car.

Despite a surprising slump in visitor numbers and growing cries from fed-up locals, millions of selfie-stick-waving tourists will still flock to Santorini this year – enticed by blue-domed buildings, pristine beaches, and Instagram-worthy sunsets. Measuring just 29.4 square miles, the tiny island is ideal for those comfortable with hiring a car.

It’s a great way to explore all of the island’s nooks and crannies and escape from the coach-load of cruise passengers that get herded in everything morning. You can check out stunning vineyards over at Venetsanos Winery, spend the day at the iconic red beach, or have dinner in Fira, the capital famed for its whitewashed buildings and buzzing atmosphere.

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There are a slew of hire car companies on the island, meaning prices can get competitively low. Still, it is worth booking in advance to secure a bargain, especially if you’re travelling during the peak period. Make sure you go with a reputable vendor to afford being ripped off too.

Experts over at Lonely Planet, who advise hiring a car through your accommodation provider, say having your own vehicle can give you ‘full freedom’ to explore the island – but warns there are certain ‘drawbacks’. “The relatively short drives along the island’s diminutive road network can be harrowing due to narrow lanes, cliffside plunges and incessant peak season traffic,” they explained.

“Parking is also stressful in Fira and at the beaches. Expect hefty fines if you decide to leave your car in an unapproved spot. A good strategy is to rent a car for just a day or two of exploration, thus saving yourself from the attendant hassles at other times.”

Parking in clearly-designated spaces – that may incur a small fee – is your best practice. You can always ask your hotel for recommended parking spots, or check Google reviews if you’re unsure. According to reports, parking violations come with a fine of up to €80 (approximately £68.39), so it’s never really worth the risk.

“I have hired a car in Santorini and this evening got a parking ticket and my number plates taken away,” one tourist wrote on Facebook back in 2023. “I know I have to pay a fine at [the] post office in Thera but how do I get the number plates back?” If anything like this happens to you whilst away, contact the company you rented your car from. It is still your responsibility to pay the fine, but staff may be able to help explain the process – and get your number plates back.

Cycling is another popular way of navigating Santorini, which is a great way to avoid any steep fines. However, prepare for your thighs to burn as the island is filled with harsh inclines and twisty roads. “Add in drivers maniacally speeding to make up for time spent stalled in traffic and the challenges multiply,” Lonely Planet added.

“Still, you can easily rent a bike on the island from multiple sources. Ask about e-bikes, which are becoming more available in Santorini, unless the many hills fit into your training scheme for the Tour de France.”

*You can fly directly to Santorini from London, Newcastle, and Edinburgh. Return fares cost as little as £56 in July, based on Skyscanner listings.

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