Summer is coming! And it can not come fast enough. This summer no matter where your travels may take you, we want to help you be the most efficient packer you can be. Here are some traveling tips you don’t want to miss:

Always pack your carry-on with pajamas and at least one day’s worth of clothing.

Not packing a few essential items in your carry-on may be the biggest rookie traveler mistake of them all. No matter how far you are going, there is always a chance of lost luggage. Be prepared by keeping a set of pajamas, change of undergarments, toothbrush and one day’s worth of clothing with you after you have checked a bag.

Never leave your luggage unattended or in the watch of a stranger.

This may be a no-brainer, but even at your local airport keep your baggage in sight at all times. Pickpockets prey on people who are so caught up with the sights and sounds of new places. So be mindful and watch your items. Pack your bulkiest items first. Packing your important, larger items first will guarantee you have room for them. Then at the end, you can squeeze in last minute items. Additionally, the smaller stuff will be the first to be left at home if you don’t make the weight limitations enforced by your airline (usually 50lbs). Expert tip: Roll your clothing instead of folding to save room!

Leave room for souvenirs.

If you plan on bringing back gifts or personal souvenirs leave room in your suitcase from the start. Many-a-times people are heartbroken when one of their beautiful belongings must be left behind or thrown away to make room for new goodies.

Don’t bring your favorite garments.

Similar to my last recommendation, don’t bring your nicest garments if you're traveling abroad or an extended amount of time. Even in some European countries, such as Italy, quality washing machines or washing machines at all can be difficult to find. Don’t ruin your favorite piece just because you had to have it abroad.

Pack a few plastic grocery bags and Ziploc bags.

You never know when you are going to need a plastic bag or Ziploc baggie. Both of these things can come in handy if you have wet or dirty clothes, shoes that you are trying to repack, or you have small or breakable items. Also, make sure a couple of the bags are quart-sized for TSA checks.

On traveling days, wear garments with pockets.

This is a major must, especially when you are juggling tickets, phones, IDs, and passports. Taking them out and putting them back into your carry-on or purse can be timely and a major inconvenience, do yourself the favor by getting a good pair of traveling pants or a jacket with deep pockets. I promise you won’t regret it.

If you are traveling via plane, wear layers.

Even if you are traveling from a warm place make sure you bring extra layers for the flight, as the temperature in the cabin will drop the higher you get into the atmosphere. If you are naturally warm, still bring a light layer just in case.

Make a list of everything you will need a week before you pack and then keep adding to it as you think of new things.

When you think ahead, you will be less likely to forget your must-have items. If you are going to a warm place, write down sunscreen. Will it be snowing? Bring gloves. All of these small things you will think of the week leading up to your trip could make or break your comfort during your stay.

Pack a good book or journal.

Even if every moment of your trip is packed full of great activities, always bring a good book, your reading tablet, or journal for a moment of downtime. Reading or writing about your travels will help you relax and clear your head for some self-reflection.

Hope these tips help you have a stress-free, pleasant trip. Happy travels!