#1 Travel Light

This starts with your suitcase weight, but more importantly what’s in it. You don’t want to be dragging around multiple bags while rushing to catch a train, trust me. To save space in your suitcase, roll the majority of your clothes but use compression packing cubes for heavy sweaters or bulky items. This is a game changer!

#2 Plan Your Outfits

Before you begin to pack, plan your outfits. Start a list of items you want to bring on the trip in the weeks leading up to your travel. I prefer to keep an ongoing list of items in the notes section on my phone. Anytime something comes to mind I write it there, so when it is time to pack I have something to reference while I am staring at my closet wondering what to bring.
#3 Know Your Airlines Baggage Policy
Know your airlines baggage policy - this is important. You do not want to be standing there ready to check in only to find out you need to pull out some extra shoes and jeans to make baggage weight. Or worse, pay airline baggage overweight fees!
#4 Pack dual purpose garments
To slim down your bag, pack items that layer easily and can be used for multiple events. I like to save space in my bag by traveling with shoes that can be used for a night out or walking around the city. Need some ideas on the perfect travel shoes, ask me - I have some favorites.
#5 Use a Laundry Bag
Keep your dirty clothes in one place, while also making it easier to do your laundry on the road. Most hotels offer laundry services, but this is also a great way to sort your clothes.
#6 Bring the Right Bag
I prefer something with wheels. Carrying a duffle or over the shoulder bag can get pretty tiring after some time standing in the check in line, TSA, or Customs.

As a reminder, if you’re bringing any liquids in your carry-on bag, you’ll need to present them separately at airport security so they can be scanned. I prefer leakproof bottles to keep all other items in my bag safe from any accidents. Before switching over to leakproof bottles, I had lotion explode all over the place - yikes!
#8 Carry a reusable water bottle
It is important to stay hydrated while you travel. Airports, hotels and many public spaces offer modern water stations that make it easy to refill on the go. Just be sure to have your water bottle empty before going through the TSA security line.

Always pack absolute essentials and one change of clothes in your carry on. Lost luggage does happen - the last thing you want is to be without your most needed items when you touch down in a foreign country.

One brief experience can make an impact to last a lifetime. Travel gives us new perspectives that help us bond with people who are not in our everyday. It strengthens our relationships and fuels empathy and understanding.