The spring semester is complete, the beautiful summer weather is finally here and now it’s time to pack up for day trips to the beach or vacations in tropical climates. But what to pack? There’s a plethora of issues that may arise when packing for a trip, whether it be appropriate attire, a lack of suitcase space or a mental block when it comes to putting together outfits. Never fear, follow these tips, and it’ll be smooth sailing for a summer getaway.

First, remember what you own. Don’t go out and purchase an entirely new wardrobe because all of your summer pieces are hiding out in the back of your closet. Look at what you’ve got and be thrifty about reusing items from seasons past. While many trends change annually, some make it another season or two and can be great touches to an outfit, despite their age. Once you’ve assessed what you have, then you can start strategically planning what you’ll bring to avoid major fashion faux pas.

Be realistic about packing space. Only allowed to bring one suitcase and a carry-on? Going to be crammed in the back of a minivan for a road trip? Then be smart and don’t over-pack or try to squeeze so many pieces into your luggage that it comes busting open at the seams at the luggage terminal or during a long drive. Knowing what bags you’ll be allowed to bring beforehand is important, andcan help determine how much one can fit inside of them. Your family or travel companions will thank you too, especially if they can avoid helping you carry luggage that weighs more than the car you’re driving it in.

Know where you’re going. Should you be packing for intense hiking or a business meeting? If you’re able to plan out what you’re doing before leaving for your trip, you can foresee any wardrobe needs and pack accordingly. If packing for a business or more formal trip, keep in mind to avoid packing dry-clean only or high maintenance garments. And always keep it appropriate. It’s also best to stick to clean lines and solid colors, to mix and match easily.

Re-use certain items that you’ve packed. While it may not sound like the most particularly hygienic way of doing things, there are items that are perfectly acceptable to re-use on a trip, especially trips lasting a week or more. Blazers and jackets are something that can be a throw-on piece that, unless you’ve sweated heavily, can be re-worn over layered pieces.

Shoes can definitely be re-worn, and it’s a packing rule of thumb to wear the heaviest or largest shoes that you plan to bring on the day of departure to make some more room in your luggage.

Another place to re-use apparel is through accessories such as necklaces and scarves, as long as you stick to a similar color palette throughout your vacation wardrobe. But please, refrain from wearing any kind of underwear or undergarment more than once, no matter what.

Finally, be smart about the way you pack your clothing. Rolling items is a good way to avoid wrinkling in transit, and folding cotton tees or small items in small bundles is a good way to save space. There are also other options, like the vacuum seal machines that require you to place all of your clothing in small bags. They then remove the air, compacting the clothing and creating more space for your items. Another way to save space is to place underwear or socks inside of shoes in the bottom of a suitcase, but beware if you have odor issues with your shoes.

By using these tips one can circumvent some of the frustrations of summer travel. Remember to be prepared, know what you have and bring some extra emergency pieces so you’ll stay cool on your next summer trip.

Adobe Stock Photography

By: Stephanie Tipple

Stay updated by liking us on Facebook or following us on Twitter.