Packing for a trip may seem like a simple task. However, if you’ve traveled separately, then you know that packing mistakes can leave you with some dangerous travel lessons. From forgetting a few essentials for your trip to overpacking, there are plenty of things that can go wrong when packing.

Here are some tips to help you pack smarter so you have everything you need and lighter so you don’t have to bring heavy luggage with you on your trip.

1. check the weather

Before you start packing, know the climate of your destination. If you pack warm clothes and realize it’s cold, you may spend money buying expensive clothes to stay warm. Knowing the weather for the entire time you expect to stay will go a long way in making sure you’re packing the right clothes.

2. Design everything you want to pack first

You might be tempted to pick things up as you toss them in your suitcase, but that will only lead to overpacking or leaving out some important essentials. Lay out everything you want to pack plus first so you have time to analyze and think about the role it will play in your trip. Pack only what you are sure you need and avoid “just in case” items.

3. Coordinate your clothes

Clothing is the most important item you can take with you on your trip. You want to look good, be comfortable and have enough clothes for your trip without carrying everything in your closet.

To make sure you only have the clothes you need, pack complete outfits and not individual items. For example, if you’re packing a shirt, make sure it’s one you can wear with the pants you’re wearing. It is also recommended to pack more tops than bottoms with just two pairs of shoes. Be sure to pack shoes that you can wear with different outfits.

4. Roll up your clothes when packing

Rolling clothes when placing them in the suitcase will save space and prevent them from wrinkling. It also makes it easy to arrange them in the suitcase, occupying all available spaces with ease. Also, put your socks inside your shoes to save space in your suitcase.

5. Visualize your vacation before packing

It is important that you have a clear idea of ​​what your trip will be like before you start packing. Are you going to attend, for example, a special event? Will you be going out to dinner or attending conferences? Having a clear idea of ​​what you will be doing will help you choose the right outfit and you should have the items you need to pack.

6. Buy a small suitcase

The bigger the suitcase, the more you can carry. Having a small suitcase ensures that you only pack the essentials instead of things you won’t be using for the entire trip.

7. Use packing cubes

Packing cubes keep your things organized and intact inside the suitcase. You can use color-coded cubes to easily find your things without messing up your entire suitcase.

Give yourself plenty of time to pack so you don’t forget essential items. Try using these tips to pack light for your next trip or vacation.