There are so many articles out there about what you should and shouldn't take on your trip. Instead of listing specific items and quantities, I want to take a different approach with this. There are reasons why people tell you to pack 2 pairs of pants, 1 pair of shorts, etc., but I'm going to give you the logic and then you can build a list based on what your style is.

There a few blanket rules that will work well regardless of where you go and what you will be doing. So, let's get started.

1. Pack layers

Layering your clothes is the easiest way to adapt to changing weather conditions and react to the unexpected. Regardless of where you go, take at least one item that is long-sleeved. Obviously, it will help keep you warm, but more importantly if you are going to a warm sunny place, use this item to keep the sun off of you so you don't get sunburned. Layer undershirts and light over-shirts with light jackets. If you're traveling somewhere colder, then by all means, take a heavy coat. If you're traveling to the tropics, you probably won't even need a light jacket, but still. Trust me on this one, take something long-sleeved.

Want packing tips straight from me? Check out my book, I narrated it myself and everything!

2. Don't take too many shoes

I realize that this is a vicious stereotype that women like to travel with lots of shoes, but regardless of gender, the advice remains the same. You only need two pairs of shoes. You'll want a pair of slip-on shoes for going through the airports and to run down for a soda at your hostel in the middle of the night. (Flip flops also double nicely as shower shoes should you stay in hostels) You'll also want very comfortable and durable walking shoes. Typically, on a vacation, you want to see the sights and get around. That usually means a lot of walking, so keep that in mind and don't buy a brand new pair of shoes right before your trip.

3. Travel-friendly clothing

This one may be geared more towards the ladies, but you never know. Chiffon, satin, silk, among others, DO NOT TRAVEL WELL. You will pull these things out of your bag full of wrinkles. Save yourself the headache, pack cotton, rayon, and polyester. If you want some more advice on the specifics, check out Travel Fashion Girl's Post about the subject. She covers it in much more detail than I can.

4. Pack complementary colors

You want to maximize your combinations while minimizing the number of items you pack. Choose items that are complementary colors and pack very few brightly colored items. You can find plenty of packing lists and "capsule wardrobe" ideas on Pinterest.

5. If you're going to a church

If you're planning on going into a religious place anywhere on your trip, remember that there are rules in many of those places. St Peter's Basilica will not let you in if your shoulders or knees are showing! Pack and dress accordingly.

6. Remember that laundromats are all over the world!

You don't have to pack an outfit for every day that you are traveling, just wash your clothes every couple of days and wear the same things in different cities. It's not like anyone along the way will notice that you wore that dress three days ago in a different country!

7. Check out my book on this very topic

Available on iUniverse, Amazon, Kindle, and wherever you find your books online. After over a decade of traveling, I decided to write down some of the things that I most often tell people as advice. This is a helpful companion to any traveler filled with stories and guidance to help even the most seasoned of us to enjoy a vacation more. If you are interested, check it out!

I wish you luck with your packing choices and I hope that you can optimize your wardrobe for your next trip. Thanks, y'all!

I realize that this is a vicious stereotype that women like to travel with lots of shoes, but regardless of gender, the advice remains the same. You only need two pairs of shoes. You'll want a pair of slip-on shoes for going through the airports and to run down for a soda at your hostel in the middle of the night. (Flip flops also double nicely as shower shoes should you stay in hostels) You'll also want very comfortable and durable walking shoes. Typically, on a vacation, you want to see the sights and get around. That usually means a lot of walking, so keep that in mind and don't buy a brand new pair of shoes right before your trip.