Less bulk in your suitcase means more to bring back from your vacation

The all-inclusive summer vacation that you have been waiting for all summer is finally here. Before you start cramming every item imaginable in your large suitcase, take a minute to plan out what you'll really need. Vacations are supposed to be relaxing so don't clutter your chi by worrying about what to put in your suitcase.

Here are 6 tips that every person should follow when packing:

6. Pack ONLY the Bare Necessities. All you need is a summer shirt for every day you will be on vacation. Remember, most of your day is spent in a bathing suit, so you don't need a t-shirt in every color. Add two pairs of shorts and maybe a cute dress (or two) for those nights out. There is absolutely no shame in re-wearing clothes, you're on vacation!

5. Bathing Suits. This seems like a no brainer. Most of your time will be spent on the beach so why not pack two or three bathing suits for a little variety.

4. Swim Suit Cover ups. If you tend to burn, like I do, maybe it's wise to pack a swim suit cover up or two. They are the perfect item to throw on when heading over to the buffet for lunch.

3. One pair of Jeans / One Sweater. Don't go overboard when packing warmer clothes. The temperature does tend to go down in the evenings but I bet you'll hardly feel the cool night's breeze after all those pina coladas. Jeans are very handy if you plan on going horseback riding or trekking in the rainforest.

2. Only THREE pairs of shoes. Flip Flops are for the beach, black heels are for the club and running shoes are for day adventures. You should also bring a pair or two of socks, depending on the amount of day activities you want to do. There is no reason to bring any more shoes. Period.

1. Limit the Beauty Products. Reality check, you don't need hair moose on your vacation as the humidity will probably kill any hairstyle in two seconds flat. On vacation I only tend to bring eyeliner, mascara and some bronzer/powder. Other beauty products should come in miniature form, like a small bottle of toothpaste or shampoo.

Before you leave make list of every item and double check your suitcase before you close it up for the last time. In the end by packing lightly you'll not only have less to lug around, but you'll also have plenty of room to fill your suitcase with souvenirs and gifts for yourself!

Yvonne Ivanescu
		About the author:
		A self-proclaimed travel fanatic, Yvonne has had the opportunity to travel to many amazing and exotic countries over the years. Her favorite spot overall was her unforgettable trip to Egypt. Her journey to Paris was particularly special, as it was the Journalism School at Sciences Po that reignited her passion for writing and journalism. Since returning from France, Yvonne has interned at Vervegirl Magazine and MTV Canada while freelancing for a number of other publications. She has an Honors B.Soc.Sc in International Studies with a minor in Spanish and French and is currently pursuing her Masters in International Development and Globalization with a Specialization in Women's Studies.
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