Six ways to fill your suitcase for less

If you're about to jet off to sunnier skies, here are six summer steals to help you stuff your suitcase for less…

The summer holiday season is now in full swing, and I know I'm looking forward to enjoying a well-earned break!

But with the recession still biting, many of us will be looking for ways to enjoy our relaxing getaway on a budget this year.

Fortunately, with retailers offering a whole host of brilliant bargains right now, you can update your summer wardrobe without breaking the bank…

1. Avoid the lobster look for less

If, like me, your idea of the perfect holiday is to bask on the beach and soak up some rays, it's vital you take precautions to protect your skin.

However, as any seasoned sun worshipper will know, the cost of SPF cream can soon add up.

Sun care can often be far more expensive abroad, and may not always be of the same quality you'd find in the UK. Therefore, it's a good idea to stock up on sun cream before you jet off.

Right now, both Boots and Superdrug are offering buy one get one free on selected sun care - whether you shop online or in store.

Chemistdirect.co.uk is also offering a selection of summer special offers on travel essentials such as sun cream. Plus, if you spend over £40 in one transaction, you can have your goods delivered free of charge.

2. Be savvy about swimwear

If you need some new swimming togs to hit the surf in style, check out these super swimwear bargains.

Debenhams is currently offering 20% off selected swimwear for both men and women - plus a whole range of discounts on beach accessories.

Alternatively, you could pop along to Next or John Lewis and check out their range of reduced beachwear.

Meanwhile, for the girls, House of Fraser is offering a whole host of dazzling discounts on swimwear - and you can pick up a pair flip-flops for as little as £4!

3. Step out in sunnies for less

I don't know where I'd be without my sunnies on holiday. And at these bargain prices, you could treat yourself to a couple of pairs to wear with different outfits.

Right now, Sunglass Hut is offering up to 30% off selected designer sunglasses.

Debenhams, on the other hand, has sunglasses from as little as £3, while Asda is offering sunglasses from a mere £4!

However, my favourite are a pair of pink butterfly frames from Primark for just - wait for it - £1.96!

4. Stuff your suitcase with frugal fashion

If you're sick of your summer clothes from last year and want to brighten up your holiday wardrobe, why not treat yourself with one of these frugal fashion finds.

Right now at BHS you can get up to 70% off items across all departments. And there is also a specific holiday shop for women offering up to half price on selected swimwear, sandals and summer clothes.

My favourite BHS bargain has to be the men's Baywatch T-shirt reduced from £12 to just £3.60.

Once again Debenhams also comes up with trumps, offering 20% off selected men's t-shirts.

Online, Very.co.uk and Asos are both offering some super deals and discounts on both men's and women's holiday fashion.

5. Check out cheap cosmetics

You don't need to spend a fortune shopping for travel toiletries and first aid supplies this summer.

Right now, Debenhams is offering duty-free prices on over 100 beauty essentials.

Meanwhile, Superdrug is currently offering a range of discounts on holiday must haves such as mosquito repellent, toothpaste and body wash.

The Perfume Shop has holiday bargains on a range of fragrances until 12 August

6. Bag some bargain luggage

If you're worried about blushing with shame at the state of your battered bags when they fall off the conveyer belt in the airport, check out these brilliant deals on brand new luggage.

Finally, right now, BHS is offering up to 70% off selected luggage, while Tripp is giving holidaymakers one last chance to bag a bargain with their clearance sale, which features up to 80% off selected items.

**This material is for information purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. We strongly encourage our readers not to rely solely on this content, but to seek independent advice when making financial decisions.**