Research the climate of the country you are visiting and think about the type of activities you'll be doing there. If sightseeing and touring are your main objectives, you'll need to pack different items to those you would pack for a business trip or a relaxing beach vacation.
Keep cultural sensitivities in mind. In India, for example, women are expected to dress modestly and wearing tight clothing, shorts or sleeveless tops can draw unwanted attention. If you plan to visit religious sites, even in modern cities in Europe, shoulders and knees should be covered up. WhatToWearOnHoliday.com lists the traditional dress and recommended items to bring for countries around the world.
Select clothing that will be appropriate for your itinerary; typically one outfit per day of your trip will suffice. If you're visiting a relaxed destination like a beach resort in the Caribbean or the Greek islands, you can get away with packing less since you'll be wearing swimwear more than formal clothing.
Choose shoes and accessories to coordinate with your outfits; if you'll be doing extensive walking and touring of cities, do not forget a broken-in pair of walking shoes or athletic shoes. Save room in your suitcase by wearing your bulkiest pair of shoes on the plane.
Choose travel-sized toiletries whenever possible and pack them in your suitcase instead of your carry-on bag. Unless you're married to a specific brand, leave shampoo and soap at home and use the complimentary bottles in your hotel room. Pack toiletries in zip-top bags to safeguard clothing from spills or leaks.
Bring electrical adapters suited for the country you'll be visiting if you plan to use your own curling iron, shaver, laptop or other electronic device.
Pack valuables, prescription medications, travel documents, a guidebook and/or foreign language phrase book and a change of clothing in your carry-on bag. Many international flights have seat-back entertainment systems, so leave your portable DVD player behind. Keep your passport (with visa inside if required), a copy of your passport, your boarding pass and any hotel, car rental or ticket confirmations in your carry-on. If you need special immunizations for your trip, bring your shot records with you.
