Collect your toiletries and place them in plastic baggies that have leak-proof seals. Try to get as much air out of the bags as you can.
Contemplate less than half full items. Place lotions and other liquids in smaller bottles so you don't take up so much space.
Purchase space saving air bags. These are the bags that you can suck the air out of with a vacuum. You can put your toiletries in these bags as well, if your bags are water tight.
Set out everything that you'd like to take on your trip, including clothes, shoes and accessories. Think of your activities and the climate of your destination. If you're staying in a lodge in the woods, you really don't need that little black dress or tuxedo.
Put back shoes that don't go with more than one outfit. If necessary rethink outfits so that you can get more outfits out of less clothing. This rule works for accessories like ties and jewelry as well.
Pack your luggage with the bags of clothes on the bottom. Place your shoes and toiletries products around the clothes bags.
