5. Iron before packing and then roll – don’t fold – clothes.

6. For bulky items like sweaters, stuff the rolled garment toward the foot of a pair of pantyhose – it makes a tight container that takes up less space.

7. Leave dry–cleaned items in their plastic bags to help avoid wrinkles.

8. Hang clothes immediately after check-in to prevent wrinkling. If clothes do wrinkle, hang them in the bathroom while taking a hot shower to steam them smooth.

10.Consider bringing "disposable" clothing, such as older socks, underwear, T-shirts, and even old shoes. Before departing, donate them or throw them out to make room for souvenirs.

11. Layering is a great way to make a wardrobe more versatile and accommodate changing weather.

12. Place anything that could ruin clothes, such as liquid make-up, shampoo, and toothpaste, into a sealed plastic bag.

13. Take along your eyeglass prescription in case you lose or break your glasses. Consider buying glasses that darken in the sun to eliminate the need for sunglasses.

14. If you plan to take along items such as an electric razor or hair drier to a foreign country, check with your hotel to see if you'll need an adapter.

15. Even the lightest traveler should bring a day bag. A small backpack can hold your umbrella, camera, book, souvenirs, and whatever else you want to carry while you go exploring.

16. A security pouch is essential. Worn concealed under clothing, it is the safest place to keep money, travelers’ checks, passport, and other valuables.

17. Don’t forget a small "first aid kit" of bare necessities: tweezers, nail clippers, aspirin, antibiotic cream, cotton swabs, anti–diarrheal, and cold medications.

18. Use a covered kettle or pan to boil water, it?s faster and it uses less energy.

19. A small, inflatable pillow is indispensable for avoiding a sore neck on a long overnight flight or train ride.