Tips on packing

The holidays are coming up and vacation time is upon us.  It goes without saying (even though I am saying it) that you probably have to pack a suitcase.  It doesn't matter who you are or where you are going, planning and being prepared starts with what you pack.  Whether you are an angel or a zombie you will need a bit of this and that.  Even the yeti needs to pack a thing or two (just ask Bob packing is his favorite topic).  You could be leaving for a week or month but it is important to remember these tips.

• When choosing your clothes, pick multipurpose items that can be used more than once.
• Plan to dress in layers because you never know what you will need.  The weather can change like the flip of a coin. 
• Roll your clothes rather than fold them.  They are least likely to wrinkle, crinkle or other annoying "inkles". 
• Bring toiletries but keep them to a minimum.  Take small, multipurpose items.  If you run out, you can usually replace these items at relatively inexpensive prices.  Also you will often find complementary toiletries in your hotel room. 
• Leave room for gifts and be sure to make them small.  Your friends/family will love you for an exotic present and its a good way to share your story. 
• Bring a small and simple first aid kit.  These are easy to find.  You can get them at the drug store but as I am into green living (I think that's what the humans call it),  I prefer to make my own with what I get at organic health food stores.  I feel it's always best to go as natural as you can, so I prefer to pack things like witch hazel extract, lavender essential oil, aloe vera gel, etc.  Don't forget the practical things as well like band aids, rubbing alcohol, scissor/tweezers, etc. 
• Accessorize but leave the bling at home.  A little jewel here and there is fine but when you wear something that has alot of rinestones or real stones, they can snag on your clothes and just otherwise annoy you.  Pack things like a scarf (multipurpose and classy), elastic bracelets (can be really nice hair ties), and a colorful necklace (one I never leave home without) that is more portable. 
• Have a swiss army knife with several functions in your suitcase.  You will find that this comes in handy so many times.  For example, If you have a spork on yours, you can eat out a little easier.  And a corkscrew may be essential.   
• The best of best packing advice comes from a very wise woman that I met at the "Prickly Apothecary" told me this.  Put everything (clothes, jewelry, toiletries, etc) in ziplock bags.  Mark the bags to record what is in them.  For example, I usually have one bag for panties, one bag for bras, one bag for socks, and several bags with t-shirts, dresses, and blouses.  I even put my shoes in ziplock bags.  Then you can rifle through your suitcase to find a specific item without messing everything up.  If you do this, your clothes will stay fresh, pressed and it will keep anything nasty from crawling in there.  You will still have to wash everything after your trip is over but life will be much easier with this piece of advice.

Those are some of the best tips I can give you when it comes to packing.  Being an avid traveller is fun but it isn't easy especially when it comes to wrangling suitcases.  That is why you will want to pack light and smart.  Happy packing friends and keep everything light!

PS:  Birthday suit is good but keep it in your room because humans go crazy at the sight of it (no matter who you are).