Consider how long you'll be away. Packing for a summer abroad versus staying at your parents house for a weekend include very different priorities. Also consider if you have access to a washer and dryer while on your trip.
Plan clothes for every day you'll be away. To avoid packing too much, you should stick with a color scheme so clothes are interchangeable and you can create several outfits. Take plenty of underwear, and women should take one nude bra and one black bra since these can be washed in any sink.
Try to take only two pairs of shoes. The pair you wear on the trip, and an additional pair in your bag. Shoes are heavy and often take up a lot of space, so keep them at a minimum.
Take any toiletries you need such as a toothbrush and razor. In your toiletries bag also include any prescription medication you need as well as pain reliever and bandages. Include any chargers for items such as your cell phone or MP3 player.
Make sure your purse or carry-on bag has all of your essentials the night before. Be sure you have your passport if needed, directions to where you're headed and your cell phone in case you get lost.
