But that doesn’t mean we have to resort to leggings and a jumper under our outerwear (no matter how tempting that may seem) ...

The fit of your trench coat is arguably the most crucial factor in avoiding bulk. It's easy to get lost in a sea of fabric with oversized, shapeless designs, especially if you're petite.

Of course, space in your luggage is precious, and the bulk of a jacket may be more than what you want to pack. That's why many travelers seek out packable jackets that fold down compactly.