I love going on vacation but I HATE packing! I am sure some of you will agree with me. I am typically the last minute packer, many times just the night before. However, I rarely forget anything. With the packing tips I am about to share with you, you won't either!

The biggest tip that I can give you is do not over pack. I always see these people at the airport with a cart full of suitcases and I always think to myself "what the heck could be in there?" Unless you are going on a month long safari, you should only need one suitcase. And with airline baggage fees, this will save you a lot of money!

Most of the trips I book for my clients are all inclusive beach vacations so that is what I will focus on. During the day (unless you are going on a tour) all you will need is a bathing suit, cover up and sandals. During the evenings, you will need either a casual outfit or a more elegant outfit depending on the restaurant. It is important to know the dress code so you can make sure you have appropriate clothing.

When you are packing, lay out all your clothing you may need for your trip and then cut it down by half. Just like your closet, you will not wear many of the clothes that you bring. You should also choose clothing that you can mix and match to maximize your options while on vacation.

Here are more useful tips you should find helpful:

Roll your clothes Fold each item in half, then carefully coil it up before placing it in your carry-on and filling all the corners. The payoff: you’ll maximize space in your suitcase. Another perk: your clothes are likely to arrive wrinkle-free.

Tip: Pick bulkier items to wear on the plane or in the car so they don’t take up precious luggage space.

Add smaller items Look for nooks and crannies to fill with smaller items, like bras and socks.

Tip: Stuff the cups of your bras with rolled-up socks to maintain bra shape.

Choose shoes wisely Pick three pairs of shoes, like a casual sandal or loafer, sneakers, and an evening shoe –go for styles that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Wear the heaviest pair en route and pack the others along the sides of your suitcase in resealable bags.

Pack your jewelry Stow inexpensive jewelry in a seven-day plastic pillbox or a 35-millimeter film canister. Wear any fine jewelry en route to ensure it won’t get lost or stolen.

Toiletries should always be placed on top of your suitcase in a clear bag since you may have to take it out during the TSA screening process.

Never unpack your toiletries: I recommend keeping a separate toiletry kit for traveling. Keeping a set of bathroom products already packed also ensures that you don’t forget a toothbrush or contact lens case that you might use the morning of takeoff. Keep these items in a small pouch or box in the corner of a cabinet or drawer for easy access when packing for a trip. To prevent leakage, double up that plastic bag.

Basic Packing Checklist: Here is a handy beach packing checklist that I use when packing for a trip:

https://static01.nyt.com/packages/pdf/travel/PackingLists/Beach.pdf

Bring an extra bag or backpack that you can take with you to the pool/beach or on a tour. This is the easiest way to carry your phone, sunblock, water and money.

Hopefully you found some these trips helpful. Happy travels!!

Stefanie Parrish-Becker World Travel