I’ve been to 2 different countries in the last six months and realized I over packed for both. Although I try to keep it simple by coordinating my clothes around 1 or 2 colors which helps to save on the number of shoes, jewelry and purses needed and few loads of laundry once I return home. I also found I need less clothes if I pack outfits that go day into night while still looking stylish and being comfortable. However, still came home with quite a few outfits never worn on both occasions. So when you set out your pre-planned outfits, bring one less!
For shorter trips, do only a carry-on instead of checking a bag in, so that you can exit the airport immediately after reaching your destination. Plus a number of airlines now charge for checked bags, so if you can avoid checking a bag in, you’ll save time and money.
Best thing I’ve learned is to keep my toiletries bag packed at all times; having separate toiletries just
for travel saves an immense amount of packing and unpacking time; my only decision is to bring either a curling iron or flat iron, but never both! Limit toiletries to travel size since most hotels offer toiletries.
I always bring a carry-on. I think it's a control thing of having my belongings near me. If I am checking a bag in, then my carry-on contains all my essentials like phone charger, adapters, portable charger, medications, jewelry (limit yourself to pieces that go with everything and leave the good stuff at home) camera, outfits for 2 days (just in case my luggage is lost or delayed.) I pack a separate bag for in-flight essentials like earbuds, lip balm, hand sanitizer, Advil and of course reading material! I usually bring a light jacket to double as a pillow for the flight. I’ve learned to l put an empty water bottle in my carry-on to fill once I’m thru security. Why pay $3-$4 for a bottle of water? Leave plenty of room in your carry-on for souvenirs and pack a fold down bag just in case you need it during your travels for days trip to the beach or excursions. Having a few healthy snacks is always a good idea. I like to pack snacks like almonds, energy bars and dried fruit. I also bring a few vitamin packed drink packets to add to water since my vacations involve a lot of activities; I know I’ll need it! It sure is nice to have a few munchies for the flight, hotel room and for day excursions.
Now for the suitcase! Rolling clothing really does save space and prevent wrinkles and after years of packing I wouldn't fold my clothes again! Who wants to iron on vacation? Stuff your shoes with socks, etc. Bring a scarf! Maximize your scarves potential by using it as a stylish accessory, shawl or a sarong (for a beach vacation.) Going somewhere warm? A simple dress or a maxi shirt with a tank work great for day excursions and double as evening wear by adding a scarf and/or denim jacket/sweater.
For the return trip, I always come across a plastic bag either from shopping or in my hotel room. I pack all my dirty clothes in a plastic bag which saves time when unpacking; I simply take the whole bag to the laundry room. If you have a connecting flight, I highly recommend packing your carry-on with 1 night's essentials just in case you miss your connecting flight. It will save you an immense amount of time not having to retrieve your checked in bag and rechecking it in. Also never pack anything with personal information like receipts, atm withdrawals in your checked-in bag.
Highlights
Pick 1 color to coordinate clothes around for short trips and 2 for long trips
Keep jewelry to a minimum; silver or gold go with everything!
Toiletries- think travel size
Keep toiletries bag packed at all times
Empty or refillable water bottle to be filled once thru security
Pack healthy snacks for in-flight and trip
Tightly roll clothes to prevent wrinkling
Stuff shoes with things like socks to save space
Bring a scarf or 2 to accessorize and can double as shawl and/or sarong
A simple dress or maxi skirt are perfect for day and evening