Every day airports are crammed with people traveling for business or pleasure. There are those who always pack light and those who pack everything in their closet. Listed below are tips to help those who want to take everything with them without lugging multiple bags around.

Plan Ahead

Planning ahead is one of the most important things you can do. Make a list of all the items you will need to pack. This list will help you pack more efficiently and also will be a reminder for those last minute items. Take a copy of the list with you for repacking purposes. You don’t want to leave anything behind.

Before planning your wardrobe, look up the weather conditions for the place you will be visiting. Consider also the activities you will be participating in while there. Make a separate list of possible outfits. Pick clothes that go well with each other. For instance, if you need to take a jacket pick one that will match several outfits so you can wear it more than once. Try to pack no more than two pairs of shoes - one pair of comfortable walking shoes and one pair of dress shoes. Coordinate your outfits to match these shoes.

Once you have an idea of what you want to wear it’s time to pack them up. Plan each day out and what outfits you will be wearing for that day. Lay out all the clothes you will need for that day. Make one stack for each day. This will help to insure that you do not forget to pack an important item for that day.

Packing

Okay, you have your lists and your clothes are all laid out so now, how are you going to fit it all in one manageable bag? Make sure your clothes are ironed prior to packing. Zip all zippers and button up all shirts, dresses and pants.

Socks, jeans, t-shirts, and undergarments can all be rolled. Rolling your clothes helps save space and helps eliminate wrinkles. Dress shirts and blouses can be folded into each other. Lay the shirts flat on top of each other and fold them using the department store method. This method of folding will also help in eliminating wrinkles.

Use all available space. The inside of your shoes are a great place to stuff socks. The outside pockets on your luggage are perfect for smaller items. Pack tightly so your clothes are less likely to be tossed about during travel.

When packing toiletries, think small! Most items you need will be available in travel sizes. Purchase a small toiletries bag. Any liquid items should be placed in a small zip lock bag to prevent any damage in the event of a spill. Call your hotel to see what amenities they offer. Most supply hairdryers, irons, soap, conditioning shampoo and body lotion. Make-up should also be packed in a small toiletry bag. Pack only the make-up items you will need for the trip.

After all items are packed, place a copy of your itinerary on the top in case of lost luggage. Also purchase smart tags, for the outside of your luggage with your name clearly printed on it. This will help in the event of lost luggage.

All valuable items like jewelry, keys, and travel documents need to be carried with you on the plane.

Once you have reached your destination, unpack your bags and place the items in the available drawers and hang dresses and dress shirts. If you took more than one bag, place them into each other and store them out of the way. This will prevent having to dig through your luggage daily and will also help with wrinkle prevention.