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As holiday season arrives and suitcases are wheeled out from under beds across the country, many travellers fall into a familiar trap of buying "essential" travel gadgets that promise to make their trip smoother. But according to Fred Harrington, CEO of online discount platform Proxy Coupons, one of the most frequently packed items is little more than a waste of space and money.

Many people think a portable clothing steamer would be helpful to bring on their trip, but experts say odds are, you won't use it. "These gadgets are marketed as travel lifesavers," Harrington said.

"They promise crisp, wrinkle-free clothes on the go, but in reality, they're often bulky, underused, and unnecessary. Most people use them once, if at all, and then lug them around for the rest of their trip."

Weighing more than a pound and requiring distilled water, which isn't always easy to find while travelling, portable steamers often take up valuable luggage space better used for an extra outfit or a pair of comfortable shoes.

And with most hotels offering irons as standard, and tricks like hanging clothes in a steamy bathroom working surprisingly well, Harrington insists there are simpler, free alternatives.

The appeal of travel steamers and similar gadgets, he says, stems largely from clever marketing and the influence of social media.

"Social media has created this idea that you need specialist gear for every travel scenario," Harrington said.

"But most of these 'must-have' items are just marketing dressed up as necessity."

It's an expensive illusion. Many travellers spend hundreds of pounds on niche accessories and tools they believe will enhance their experience, only to find that they remain untouched at the bottom of a suitcase.

"The key is asking yourself: 'Will I actually use this more than twice?'" Harrington added.

"If the answer is no, leave it out. Travelling smart is about versatility and practicality, not having a gadget for every minor inconvenience."

Instead of loading up on single-use tools, he recommends focusing on multifunctional, high-quality basics.

A waterproof jacket that keeps you warm and dry, a good pair of walking shoes, or a smartphone that acts as your camera, map, translator, and entertainment system, as these are the items that truly pull their weight.

"Your wallet and your back will thank you," he added.