Five tips to pack light and pack right

No matter the length of your trip - packing for that weekend getaway or flying half way around the globe - you need to pack a bag and you'll want to pack it right. That's why we've put together some essential packing tips just in time for travel season.

Stuffing your suitcase is easy, but you'll thank your future self for making an effort to see the full lineup in advance.  This "visual lay of the land" will help you to prune out the extra "just in case" pieces that you never end up wearing.  It will also help you better mix and match your wardrobe while saving you valuable space to bring back some souvenirs.

Start with the heavier items like shoes (ideally in shoe bags) on the outer edges or closer to the wheels.  The inner spaces in shoes are the perfect nooks to pack in socks and small sized delicate items.  Whenever you can, use travel-sized toiletries in your travel kit and place it towards the top of your case for quick access. 

Your closet has seen trends come and go, but the basics — that perfectly worn-in white tee, your never-fail blue jeans, and those go-to nude flats or espadrilles — are forever. These building blocks of your wardrobe always need to be with you. And don't feel shy to wear them on repeat. 

The truth is that there is no one perfect way to compress your wardrobe.  Non-bulky wardrobe essentials are the perfect candidates to roll - tees, jeans, shorts, pullovers.  Stiffer or bulkier items like shirts, jackets, and sweaters are best folded.  

Consider wearing your heaviest shoes on the plane and packing your bulkiest jacket in what the airlines these days refer to as your "personal item" - aka your tote or a 20" duffel - that fits under the seat.  It will save valuable space in your carry-on.