Place 20 plastic bags in your suitcase -- bundle them inside each other to make them as small as possible. These plastic bags are an indispensable travel tool to keep in your suitcase: use them to stash dirty laundry, especially socks and underwear, and damp swimwear. These bags can also be used to package souvenirs, especially food, for your return trip.
Photocopy your passport and your government-issued ID as well as travel itineraries and hotel registration information. Place these items in an envelope in your suitcase. Keep the originals with you. Also leave copies of these documents with a trusted contact at home. Having a copy of these documents in your luggage is essential -- if your documents are stolen or lost, you can refer to the copies in your suitcase.
Clothing is a travel essential -- be sure your checklist includes socks, underwear, pajamas and seasonally appropriate tops and bottoms. Include one dressier outfit for nights out, and rain gear if you're traveling to an area prone to rain at that time of year. Pack comfortable walking shoes, seasonally appropriate shoes or boots, sandals for warmer climates or summer and winter boots if you're visiting a destination during winter. Include swimsuits for warm destinations.
Pack your hair care appliances, cosmetics and miscellaneous items -- such as suntan lotion or bug spray if the destination requires them -- in your suitcase. If you're visiting friends, bring a thank-you gift that travels well, such as a coffee-table book. Remember to pack spare copies of medication and personal health aids, such as contact lenses, in your suitcase. Consider keeping a set of these with you and a spare set in your checked suitcase.
