Check the weather forecast for your destination and consider the activities you are likely to do before packing your clothing items. Depending on where you are traveling, the temperature may fluctuate 10 to 20 degrees, making a big difference between packing your bathing suit or a coat. Lay out all of your outfits according to the day and activity before stuffing your suitcase. Seeing everything in order by day will help you to narrow down items that you can use more than once during your trip, saving you time and space.
Pack items such as tennis shoes and socks if you plan on going to the gym. Bring a swimsuit if you will be beach-bound. In the event that you will be sharing a room with an associate or a colleague, you may feel more comfortable packing your robe so you're not prancing around in your pajamas.
More and more hotels have equipped themselves with amenities for travelers who have forgotten common items such as toothbrushes, toothpaste and disposable razors. Don't ruin your trip by relying on someone else to supply you with your much-needed supplies. Pack all of your day-to-day toiletries to include deodorant, contact lens solution, personal hygiene needs, comb and brush and sunscreen.
It doesn't matter where you're going and what you're doing, there are certain things that you know you must have to have an enjoyable trip. From the essentials like your wallet filled with your ID, some cash and credit cards to all of your insurance documents -- including life, health, car and even travel -- check and double check that everything's in place before you depart. However, you may be a stickler for having items such as your laptop, specific magazines and snacks before you head out. Be sure you make a list of your day-to-day requirements that are easy to leave behind due to the break in your regular routine.
Consider the purpose of your trip and all the extra things that will just make things easier for you to be away from home such as your travel charger to plug in your cell phone, MP3 player and laptop. Bring your notes for your meeting or directions to your favorite shops. Include items like your camera, an umbrella and business cards for those "what if" situations. If you are taking any special medications or need lotions and moisturizers, pack those as well.
